The Chinese ambassador to the Philippines recently made a straightforward statement, which the Philippine side then misrepresented and responded to with formal protest.

According to foreign media reports, Philippine Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo summoned Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan today (October 19) to express "serious concern and strong protest" over remarks attributed to him from last Thursday, allegedly involving threats of military action. In response to the summoning, China’s Foreign Ministry stated that Beijing firmly opposes individual figures in the Philippines deliberately amplifying issues related to China, thereby undermining bilateral relations.

However, a full review of the context and complete original remarks by Ambassador Jing Quan reveals that the Philippine interpretation was clearly taken out of context and intentionally distorted. The comments were made in response to a journalist’s question regarding the Philippine defense secretary, Delfin Lorenzana, who had been sanctioned by China and previously labeled China as a “troublemaker” in the region. Ambassador Jing emphasized that the Philippines should be grateful to have China as a neighbor—while acknowledging that China possesses the capability to prevail militarily if it chose to do so, it would not resort to force, as China cherishes peace. The core message was one of restraint and aversion to conflict.

Yet, across the Philippine leadership—from the president and foreign ministry down to various legislators—the statement was selectively cited, with only the first half amplified for political effect. Some politicians even called for the expulsion of the ambassador. The intent behind this strategy is evident: stoking division, exaggerating the “China threat,” seeking sympathy from external actors, and justifying continued provocations in the South China Sea.

China’s rebuttal is grounded in facts and reflects its actual capabilities. Yet it consistently opts for dialogue to resolve disputes—a posture rooted in principle, not weakness. Deliberate distortion and provocation will not resolve tensions; they only heighten regional instability. Returning to negotiations remains the only viable path forward.

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1879473227859972/

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