Jamayka Rhose Pascual

Philippine National Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. condemned China’s aggressive maritime tactics in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) during the 2025 Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on June 2.

Photo Courtesy of Mohd Rasfan/AFP.

Teodoro criticized the Chinese delegates for posing what he described as “propaganda disguised as questions,” exposing the growing tensions between China’s official statements and its actions on the WPS.

He stressed that while China speaks of peace and cooperation, its repeated incursions and aggressive maneuvers challenge the Philippines’ sovereignty.

“In my personal opinion, the fact that the question was asked in the way it was, it engenders a deficit of trust in China’s words vis-a-vis its actions,” Teodoro emphasized.

The defense chief then underscored the country’s unwavering commitment to defend its territorial rights under international law, particularly the 2016 arbitral ruling that invalidates China’s sweeping claims in the region.

This firm response came amid rising tensions, as the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) recently confronted a China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel near Paluig Point, Zambales, an area within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone.

PCG Spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela shared that the BRP Cabra was deployed despite rough seas, asserting the nation’s rights and demanding respect for international law.

During the dialogue, Teodoro met with the top United States (US) officials to reinforce the vital Philippines-U.S. alliance.

He highlighted America’s crucial role in maintaining global stability and balancing power in the Indo-Pacific.

“It is proof of the Trump administration’s strong commitment to engage the ASEAN and the Indo-Pacific. We will continue to enhance both our bilateral and multilateral relationships, guided by our shared vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific,” Teodoro said.

Just days before the Shangri-La Dialogue, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and European Union (EU) High Representative Kaja Kallas also announced a new Philippines-EU Security and Defense Dialogue aimed at strengthening cooperation in maritime security, cybersecurity, and crisis response.