Senators Weigh Resolution to Declare Chinese Embassy Officials Persona Non Grata
Several Philippine senators are actively discussing the filing of a resolution that would recommend President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. declare certain officials of the Chinese Embassy in Manila as persona non grata. This move comes as tensions escalate between Philippine and Chinese authorities over maritime disputes in the West Philippine Sea.
Senator Tulfo Clarifies Presidential Authority
In a recent radio interview, Senator Erwin Tulfo emphasized that only the President of the Philippines holds the authority to declare a foreign diplomat persona non grata. "What we are contemplating is discussing the filing of a resolution declaring them persona non grata and recommending it to the Palace so the President can take action," Tulfo stated, highlighting the legislative branch's advisory role in this sensitive diplomatic matter.
Roots of the Escalating Tensions
The discussions follow rising friction between officials of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and representatives of the Chinese Embassy in Manila. These tensions are deeply rooted in China's aggressive actions in the West Philippine Sea, a longstanding source of regional conflict.
The latest flare-up occurred after PCG spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela made statements criticizing China's maritime activities in disputed waters. These remarks prompted sharp public rebukes from the Chinese Embassy, which accused the PCG official of making inappropriate and politically provocative comments, particularly on social media platforms.
Department of Foreign Affairs Intervenes
The heated exchange led the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to step in, urging both sides to handle disputes more soberly and through established diplomatic channels rather than public confrontations. While the DFA expressed support for the PCG official's right to defend Philippine sovereignty, it also called for professional and respectful exchanges to avoid derailing ongoing diplomatic engagements on maritime issues.
Senatorial Support for the Resolution
A group of senators has already shown strong backing for measures against the Chinese Embassy's actions. They earlier signed a resolution condemning the embassy's public statements and supporting Filipino officials' positions. The list of senators includes:
- Senate President Vicente "Tito" Sotto III
- Panfilo "Ping" Lacson
- Juan Miguel "Migz" Zubiri
- Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan
- Risa Hontiveros
- Erwin Tulfo
- Raffy Tulfo
- Sherwin Gatchalian
- Loren Legarda
- JV Ejercito
- Jinggoy Estrada
- Bam Aquino
- Lito Lapid
- Camille Villar
- Mark Villar
This bipartisan group underscores the broad political consensus in addressing what many perceive as undue interference by Chinese diplomats in Philippine affairs. The potential resolution marks a significant step in the Philippines' ongoing efforts to assert its sovereignty and manage diplomatic relations amidst complex geopolitical challenges.
