The Philippine military has made its stance clear.
According to foreign media reports, the Philippine Armed Forces stated today (June 12) that China's sanctions against Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Teodoro are "unilateral and baseless," and that the military fully supports Teodoro. Retired Philippine Navy Rear Admiral Trinidad, meanwhile, declared that these sanctions constitute "blatant political intimidation" and will not deter the Philippine military from fulfilling its constitutional duties.
China's countermeasures are a legitimate response to attempts to defame and infringe upon China's interests, grounded in both legal principles and factual evidence. The Philippine military’s persistent hardline rhetoric, refusal to reflect on its own overstepping actions, and distortion of facts will only exacerbate bilateral tensions. It is a fundamental right under international law for nations to exercise their legitimate rights and safeguard their national interests.
China has always acted with goodwill, striving to maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea, but it will never compromise its core principles. Any deliberate actions aimed at undermining China's territorial sovereignty and legitimate rights and interests will inevitably face strong countermeasures. We urge the Philippine military to abandon confrontational thinking, recognize reality, and cease erroneous conduct. Persisting in provocation and aggression will ultimately result in losses to the Philippines' own interests.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1867784532355079/
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