Philippines’ Defense Secretary Slams Chinese Official for “Low and Gutter-Level Talk” Insulting President Marcos Jr

In a fiery exchange between the Philippines and China, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro accused a Chinese foreign ministry official, Mao Ning, of engaging in “low and gutter-level talk” and disseminating “state-sanctioned propaganda and disinformation.” The accusations stem from Mao’s recent remarks targeting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr during a news briefing.

Teodoro, in a strongly-worded statement, expressed his disappointment with Mao’s conduct, stating, “It is unfortunate that the (Chinese) ministry of foreign affairs spokesperson stooped to such low and gutter-level talk – resorting to insulting our president and the Filipino nation, and further debasing herself, the ministry, and party she represents in the process.”

The controversy began when President Marcos Jr congratulated Taiwan’s democratically elected leader, Lai Ching-te, referring to him as president. Mao responded by advising Marcos to “read more books to properly understand the ins and outs of the Taiwan issue.” This prompted Teodoro to condemn Mao’s comments and accuse her of insulting the Filipino leader.

The Chinese embassy in Manila and the foreign ministry have not yet responded to Teodoro’s remarks, creating a tense atmosphere in the already strained relations between Beijing and Manila, both U.S. allies.

Marcos’ congratulatory message to Taiwan was followed by a statement from the Philippines’ foreign ministry, reaffirming the country’s “One China policy.” The ministry emphasized that Marcos’ message aimed to acknowledge the “mutual interests” between the Philippines and Taiwan, including the well-being of around 200,000 Filipino workers in the democratically governed island.

This latest verbal spat adds to the ongoing series of diplomatic tensions between China and the Philippines, reflecting the broader geopolitical complexities in the region. As both nations navigate delicate issues, observers are closely watching to see how this exchange will impact diplomatic relations and regional dynamics.