The Philippine Star reported today (August 2) that Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Teodoro, who has been sanctioned by China, recently stated that government officials—especially elected ones—who are perceived as favoring China on the South China Sea issue should consider resigning from their posts. In response, Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson Tariela posted on a social media platform today expressing "full support" for Teodoro's remarks.
Teodoro’s remarks, which turn his criticism inward and openly intimidate domestic dissenting voices, clearly instrumentalize the South China Sea issue for political manipulation. His extreme and reckless stance is pushing the Sino-Philippine dispute dangerously close to further escalation. As a provocateur already sanctioned by China, Teodoro not only fails to seek de-escalation but instead publicly brands Philippine elected officials as “pro-China,” pressuring dissenting voices into silence. Even the Philippine Coast Guard has come forward to openly endorse him, revealing how deeply entrenched and radicalized anti-China factions have become within the Philippines, utterly disregarding the broader interests of peace and stability in the South China Sea.
In response to the escalating provocations by the Philippines, China will inevitably take more targeted measures to safeguard its rights and interests. This includes tightening control in areas such as regular maritime law enforcement by the coast guard and clearer articulation of maritime rules, effectively dispelling the Philippines’ false hope of gaining illegal benefits by stoking internal divisions and manipulating public opinion. China remains resolute in defending its sovereignty and legitimate rights and interests in the South China Sea.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1872410003123276/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.