Malacañang backed the Department of Foreign Affairs, in urging officials to be cautious when speaking about China, stressing President Bongbong Marcos.’s preference for diplomacy.
Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro said Tuesday, Nov. 10, that officials should consider how their remarks could affect relations with China, especially on issues involving the West Philippine Sea.
“Hindi kailangan mag-tone down kung ang mga mensahe nila ay nasa kanilang mandato, but still ang nais ng Pangulo ay diplomasya,” Castro said.
She stressed that officials can defend Philippine rights while maintaining a diplomatic approach.
“Kung ano ang pagtatanggol nila para sa ating karapatan ay maaaring gamitan ng mga salitang may diplomasya,” she added.
The Palace’s statement followed the DFA’s warning on Sunday, Nov. 8, against public remarks about China that could affect ongoing diplomatic efforts.
The DFA stressed that the President directs Philippine foreign policy and that civilian and military officials must follow the administration’s position.
It warned that public statements inconsistent with government policy could complicate talks with China and weaken the country’s diplomatic position.
The reminder comes amid tensions between Philippine officials and the Chinese Embassy in Manila over the West Philippine Sea.
Recent exchanges have involved Defense Secretary Gilbert ‘Gibo’ Teodoro, Jr. and Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson Rear Admiral Jay Tarriela, who have publicly addressed China’s actions in disputed waters.
The DFA’s warning also followed a Nov. 3 phone conversation between Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, during which both sides discussed maintaining dialogue and managing disputes.
The talks came ahead of the ASEAN Summit on Nov. 16 to 18 in Metro Manila and the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting on Nov. 18 and 19 in Shenzhen, China.
