China has announced sanctions against Philippine Defense Secretary Teodoro and his family. Teodoro responded by saying he will continue to uphold his duties and defend the dignity of the Philippines.
On the evening of the 11th, a spokesperson for China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on its official website that Teodoro has “repeatedly made false statements about China, harmed China's legitimate interests, and damaged China-Philippines relations.”
The spokesperson stated that, in order to safeguard China's national sovereignty, security, and development interests, China has decided to prohibit Teodoro and his spouse and children from entering mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau, and to prohibit organizations and individuals within China from conducting any transactions or cooperation with Teodoro and his spouse and children.
The spokesperson did not specify in the brief announcement which remarks Teodoro had made regarding China.
The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs responded that this move constitutes an “unfriendly act” and is not conducive to building trust and promoting constructive engagement between the two countries.
On the 12th, Teodoro stated: “This is what they do to those who speak the truth about their deceptions. Their people and others under their jurisdiction face even worse treatment. I will continue to fulfill my duties and uphold our nation’s dignity in the face of the wrongdoing they commit here and in our waters.”
Teodoro is one of the Philippine government’s toughest officials towards China and has long criticized China’s actions in the disputed South China Sea. Last month, at the Shangri-La Dialogue held in Singapore, he criticized China and stated that the Philippines “will not sacrifice its sovereignty and territorial integrity.”