Photo credit: DND

Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilbert Teodoro addressed China's recent allegations that the Philippines had violated the 'One China Policy.' The accusation stemmed from the congratulatory message conveyed by Philippine President Marcos Jr. to Taiwanese President-Elect Lai Ching-Te.

Secretary Teodoro defended the Philippines' diplomatic stance, asserting that the greeting extended by President Marcos Jr. was in line with the country's commitment to maintaining cordial relations with all nations. He emphasized that the Philippines adheres to the principles of international diplomacy while upholding its national interests.

However, Teodoro expressed little surprise at China's reaction, given their track record of responding strongly to perceived deviations from their official stance. He remarked, "We should not at all be surprised - being a nation and people enjoying the privileges, rights, and freedoms of a democratic society - that an agent of a party and system of government incompatible with our way of life and who routinely spouts state-sanctioned propaganda and disinformation would go that far and that low."

The DND Secretary went on to comment on the predictability of such responses, stating, "It is unfortunate, but I am, myself, unsurprised. The spokesperson's statements were 'on brand.' We, and the world, should not expect more."