CHINA’S criticism of the Philippines’ handling of a regional defense meeting is not expected to affect attendance at this month’s Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Manila, Malacañang said on Tuesday.
“As far as we know, it will not be affected,” Palace Press Officer Clarissa A. Castro told reporters when asked whether Beijing’s remarks could discourage leaders from attending the Nov. 16-18 gathering.
Ms. Castro said the Philippines is coordinating with ASEAN member states and other participating countries, adding that visiting leaders would see for themselves how Manila engages with its partners.
Her remarks came after China’s defense ministry accused the Philippines of allowing a “self-serving politician” to abuse its chairmanship of the 13th ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting Plus in Cebu and of creating obstacles to China’s participation.
The allegation was made by Chinese defense ministry spokesman Zhang Xiaogang in a statement released through the Chinese Embassy in Manila. The statement did not identify the politician or specify the obstacles.
Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro, Jr. rejected the accusation, saying it reflected Beijing’s position and not the collective view of ASEAN.
Responding to the issue, Ms. Castro said the Marcos administration would not use its position to gain an advantage over any country. “No power or position will be used to gain an advantage over anyone,” she said.
She added that China had been represented at the meeting by its defense attaché in Manila, Senior Captain Yang Lei, who was able to participate and convey Beijing’s views.
Asked whether the Philippines or ASEAN members would issue a joint statement rebutting China’s allegations, Ms. Castro said no such proposal had been brought to the Palace. “As far as the Philippines is concerned, that is not the sentiment of the country,” she said.
She added that President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. has consistently instructed government officials to deal with other countries through diplomatic channels.
Ms. Castro also expressed hope that Chinese President Xi Jinping would attend the summit. It would be better if China’s leaders attended because it would provide an opportunity to discuss outstanding issues and possibly resolve them, she added.
Relations between Manila and Beijing remain strained over competing claims in the South China Sea. China imposed sanctions on Mr. Teodoro in June.
The Philippines is this year’s ASEAN chairman and will host the 49th ASEAN Summit and related meetings in Manila from Nov. 16 to 18. US President Donald J. Trump is among the confirmed attendees. — E.M.P. Sinaking