Manila:Malacañang has emphasized that engaging diplomatically with China is appropriate, as long as it is conducted through proper channels.
According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro clarified this position during a press briefing, stating that there are no issues with maintaining good relations with China, especially in trade and investment. She responded to remarks by Salvador Panelo Jr., spokesperson for Vice President Sara Duterte, asserting that China should not be demonized or used for political propaganda.
Castro reiterated that the Philippines' diplomatic and economic relations with China are distinct from its efforts to defend its territorial integrity and national interests in the West Philippine Sea. She stressed the importance of not conflating these separate issues.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. recently addressed concerns regarding allegations of Vice President Duterte receiving funds from China, which he described as potentially posing a national security threat if proven true. Duterte interpreted Marcos' statement as an acknowledgment of her being considered a threat since 2023.
Castro further explained that the President's comments were in response to these allegations, urging a proper understanding of his words to avoid misinformation. She also called on Duterte to clarify financial transactions involving Calle88 Foods Corp., a company linked to her, and questioned the inflow of significant funds from abroad despite the company's limited operations.
