Chinese Embassy fires back: ‘We oppose groundless attacks and smears’

MANILA, Philippines — The Chinese Embassy in Manila rejected on Friday claims that it was a bad guest in the Philippines, insisting that if fake news is spread and if China is defamed, it will not remain patient and silent. 

In a statement posted on Facebook, the embassy said it serves as a bridge to promote friendship and cooperation between the Philippines and China.

“We strongly oppose groundless attacks and smears. If fake news [is] spread, if China is defamed or if hatred is incited, we will not remain patient and silent. We will push back firmly without hesitation. This is our duty. We have every legitimate right to let the public be aware of the basic facts and China’s position,” said the embassy. 

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“Unfortunately, some people still cling to this warped logic: I can attack and insult you at will, but the moment you defend yourself or hit back, it’s suddenly “interference in internal affairs” and “disrespect”. That is not logic—it’s absurd and laughable, steeped in arrogance, ignorance, and paranoia. People who don’t even understand what respect means, who don’t know how to treat a guest with basic courtesy, yet have the nerve to label others as [a] bad guest. That hypocrisy is itself a profound disrespect—to others and to themselves. It’s nothing but self-humiliation. To those who think they can smear China and expect silence: not a chance,” it added. 

Deputy Majority Leader Sen. Risa Hontiveros earlier called the Chinese embassy in Manila a bad guest for its supposed failure to show respect in its host country.

The Chinese Embassy in Manila had earlier filed a diplomatic protest against Commodore Jay Tarriela, Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, over his alleged disparagement of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s “dignity.” 

The move came days after Tarriela posted a photo of himself in front of a flatscreen television displaying an image collage that appeared to be an AI-generated picture of Xi.

The Department of Foreign Affairs, meanwhile, noted that differences between states are best addressed through established diplomatic channels rather than through public exchanges. 

The agency stated that the Philippine government would continue to articulate its positions on the West Philippine Sea and the South China Sea, which are based on international law, including the 1982 UNCLOS and the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award. /mr