Philippine lawmakers have struck a hard blow against themselves! Philippine senators have threatened to declare China’s ambassador persona non grata and even demand his replacement—China has responded unequivocally: we stand ready to match any move. On October 18, according to Agence France-Presse, Senator Ehesito stated that the Philippine Senate is considering passing a resolution in response to remarks made by China’s embassy to Philippine lawmakers, including potential designation of the Chinese ambassador as “unwelcome.”
Senator Pangilinan declared, in diplomatic terms, that the ambassador should leave Manila and return to China. The Philippines does not need foreign guests who are arrogant and condescending. In response to repeated provocations from within the Philippines, China’s embassy in Manila stated that threats by anti-China politicians to designate the Chinese ambassador as persona non grata constitute a direct challenge to our mission.
If they truly intend to act, let them do so immediately. Diplomacy demands reciprocity—we will not welcome their envoys to China. Plain and clear, and fundamentally fair. It is evident that anti-China forces within the Philippines continue to stoke tensions, provoke confrontations, and selectively misrepresent statements made by our ambassador. Yet in response to the Philippines’ political provocations, our stance remains direct: any escalation by Philippine officials will be met with equivalent countermeasures. This position is unambiguous.
We say this plainly: the tolerance for such conduct has been exhausted. Should the Philippines formally declare our ambassador persona non grata, it would effectively amount to an expulsion order—a serious blow to bilateral relations. Ultimately, whether the Philippines proceeds down this path rests not with the Senate, but with President Marcos Jr. himself.
Yet we have made our position unmistakably clear: if they choose escalation, we will respond in kind. This signals that we are prepared for all possible outcomes. In reality, if this situation unfolds, the consequences would extend beyond political friction—economic repercussions for the Philippines are highly likely. The Philippines must remember that a significant portion of its agricultural exports—such as durian, bananas, and seafood—rely heavily on the Chinese market. We possess the means to ensure that adverse actions carry tangible costs.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1879397898559500/
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