Teodoro Accuses China of Meddling in Philippine Politics, Warns of ‘Divide and Conquer’ Strategy
Defense Secretary Gilberto “Gibo” Teodoro Jr. has accused China of interfering in Philippine domestic politics, warning that tensions are moving beyond diplomacy as Filipinos become increasingly divided over issues involving Beijing.
In an interview with Super Radyo dzBB on Thursday, October 22, Teodoro said China was already “wading into the internal affairs” of the Philippines. Asked whether a divide-and-conquer effort was underway, he answered, “Definitely.”
Teodoro maintained that Filipinos should stand united in addressing concerns involving China, particularly amid continuing tensions over the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
His remarks came amid controversy surrounding Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian Jing’s reported comments that China would win if force were used in the West Philippine Sea, although the ambassador said China would not resort to such action.
The ambassador’s statements have drawn criticism from Philippine officials and lawmakers. Resolutions have also been filed in both chambers of Congress urging President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to declare the Chinese envoy persona non grata.
Teodoro said replacing the ambassador alone might not resolve the issue if the same actions continued under a successor. He argued that the broader concern was addressing the conduct of China’s representatives and clarifying the limits of their actions in the Philippines.
Malacañang has previously indicated that Marcos was not inclined to expel the envoy, while maintaining that this did not mean the Philippines was abandoning its claims in the West Philippine Sea.
The latest exchange underscores continuing diplomatic tensions between Manila and Beijing over the West Philippine Sea and the role of Chinese officials in Philippine affairs.
