DFA rejects China’s claims of worsening security in Philippines

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Foreign Affairs pushed back on Monday, September 1, against China’s warning to its citizens about alleged crimes targeting Chinese nationals in the Philippines, calling the advisory a "mischaracterization" of the country’s security situation.

In a statement, DFA spokesperson Angelica Escalona said crimes reported to authorities — including those committed by Chinese nationals "against their compatriots" — are being “vigorously addressed” by local law enforcement authorities.

“The relevant travel advisories issued by China mischaracterize the situation in the Philippines,” Escalona said.

Beijing issues warning

The statement came a day after China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs advised Chinese citizens to reconsider travel to the Philippines. Its embassy in Manila said "public security in the Philippines has been worsening" alongside "increasing crimes targeting Chinese nationals."

On Saturday, August 30, China's education ministry similarly issued a warning against its nationals planning to study in the Philippines. The embassy said the ministry "cited a recent surge in malicious incidents targeting Chinese citizens in the Philippines."

The embassy has been asked to detail the incidents referred to in the travel advisories, but has not responded as of posting.

In April, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a similar alert, where it claimed an “unstable security situation” in the Philippines.

On Monday, the DFA spokesperson said the Philippines remains committed to addressing concerns through dialogue. 

"The Philippines remains committed to constructively addressing matters of mutual concern with China," Escalona said.

The DFA spokesperson recalled that during the 9th Philippines-China Joint Consular Consultation Meeting, both sides discussed law enforcement cooperation and agreed to deepen efforts to address such cases.