DFA ignores Sino newspaper’s editorial on PHL as ‘quasi-rogue’ state

The Department of Foreign Affairs has chosen to ignore a Chinese newspaper's editorial that called the Philippines a “quasi-rogue state,” saying there were more pressing issues—such as Beijing’s recent travel ban on the country—that both nations should focus on.

 

“We share the views of the Palace. We don’t comment on editorials,” Foreign Affairs spokesman Charles Jose said, echoing the statement issued by Malacanang.

 

The editorial ran by the Global Times this week reflected the position of the Chinese government since the paper is known as the Communist Party’s mouthpiece.

 

“Poor social governance, an anti-China sentiment, and a Western-style democratic system where nationalism can foment wantonly make the Philippines a quasi-rogue state,” it said.

The same paper also published several highly-critical editorials in the past against the Philippines for its vocal opposition to China’s massive claim in the resource-rich South China Sea.

 

Jose declined further comment and said instead, “What is more important is to address is the travel advisory issued by China to the Philippines.”

 

China’s travel policy, he admitted could have an impact on the economy, particularly tourism and possible foreign investment.

 

Global Times also demanded an apology from the Philippine government for what it called “serial attacks” on Chinese citizens in the Philippines.

 

The editorial came out more than two weeks after the alleged plan to attack the Chinese Embassy in Manila by a self-proclaimed anti-China group was foiled by Philippine authorities, the kidnapping of a Chinese national by three policemen in Caloocan City, and the abduction of a Chinese teenager in Zamboanga Sibugay in Mindanao by armed men.

The series of events prompted the Chinese government to issue a travel ban to the Philippines.

 

However, Jose insisted that these incidents were “random and isolated,” adding the Philippine government already gave its assurance to the Chinese embassy that Chinese nationals, diplomats and interests in the country would be provided the “necessary” and “appropriate” protection.

 

The DFA, he said, was also working closely with other agencies in coming up with concrete steps to address their security concerns.

 

“Hopefully we are able to convince the Chinese government that we are dealing with the issue and hopefully they are able to lift the travel advisory as soon as possible," Jose said. —NB, GMA News