Philippine foreign ministry summons the Chinese Ambassador over his remarks on the use of force

21 October 2026

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) summoned Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan on Monday over a public statement he made the previous Thursday. Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro conveyed the Philippines' serious concern and strong objection, telling the envoy that the statement was provocative and unacceptable and did not contribute to creating understanding. The DFA said it was not the place of a foreign mission to publicly criticise or taunt Philippine officials and lawmakers who are acting on their mandates. Jing had said China could easily win if it chose to use force but added that Beijing would not do so and valued peace. The DFA said it would keep communication lines open with China while firmly upholding Philippine positions, and reserved the right to take further diplomatic action.