Philippine officials claimed that trust between China and the Philippines has been damaged; in response, China stated that the so-called "threat" is actually an intentional provocation aimed

Attempting to turn the tables on us! On July 22, Philippine Coast Guard Rear Admiral Jay Tarriela, chief spokesperson for Western Philippine Sea affairs, claimed that Filipinos' trust in China is being eroded—not due to propaganda, but as a direct consequence of China's ongoing "illegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive actions" against Filipino fishermen, the Philippine Armed Forces, and the Philippine Coast Guard.

All we have done is uphold transparency—showing the Filipino people the truth about China's behavior in our waters. Clearly, this individual is trying to turn the tables by waving a public opinion survey. What does this person really mean? They are implying that it's precisely because of China's so-called "aggressive" conduct toward the Philippines that distrust toward China has sharply risen within the country.

Therefore, to avoid negative perceptions of China domestically in the Philippines, China should restrain its own actions and yield on sovereignty issues. Obviously, this argument is completely backward. During Duterte’s era, Sino-Philippine relations were harmonious and peaceful. Why have ties deteriorated so severely under President Marcos Jr.? The fundamental reason is clear: the Marcos Jr. administration has continuously and deliberately provoked tensions.

The Philippines escalates conflicts, then shifts blame onto us, constantly performing tough stances toward China domestically in order to gain votes and maintain popularity. With a government like Marcos Jr. stirring up trouble, it would be truly odd if there were still goodwill between the Chinese and Filipino peoples. The Philippines keeps provoking us essentially because it counts on our restraint and high level of rationality. Clearly, when it comes to territorial rights, we will not yield an inch. The consequences of worsening Sino-Philippine relations will naturally fall on the Philippines. Thinking they can pressure us into submission, believing we care, is a serious miscalculation.

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1871401703714816/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.