A heated exchange between the Senate and the Chinese Embassy in Manila has led two lawmakers to call for the replacement of Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan, arguing that a leadership change could help ease growing diplomatic tensions.
Senators JV Ejercito and Raffy Tulfo said relations worsened after the embassy pushed back against a Senate resolution critical of Chinese officials.
The dispute escalated when Chinese representatives lashed out at senators and Philippine Coast Guard Commodore Jay Tarriela over public remarks and a caricature of Chinese President Xi Jinping.
“Diplomats representing their country, they should not be hostile … host country they’ve been very hostile against officials of our government,” Ejercito said, noting that Ambassador Jing, who arrived in December, has already displayed what he described as an aggressive posture.
Tulfo echoed the concern, saying Jing is “very aggressive and very sensitive” compared to his predecessor, Huang Xilian.
“It will be best for the interest of the Chinese and Philippine relationship na siguro magkaroon ng bagong ambasador. It will help a lot,” Tulfo said.
Both senators stressed that the Senate is merely asserting Philippine interests and dignity.
“They have been disrespecting us, but they want respect. They have to respect also Philippine officials,” Ejercito added, clarifying that his criticism is directed at Beijing’s policies, not the Chinese people.
Senator Robin Padilla initially urged understanding but ultimately agreed that firmness should be balanced with diplomacy.
“Dapat, sumunod tayo kung ano yung sinasabi ng Pangulo. Firm daw, pero diplomatic, hindi bastos,” Padilla said.
For his part, Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III said he would rather avoid further engagement with the Chinese Embassy.
“When someone triggers you to react and you do not, it’s annoying! I prefer to be annoying!” Sotto said in a message to reporters.