THE Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has summoned Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian over China's ban against former Senator Francis Tolentino.
In a statement, the DFA informed China that while imposing such sanctions falls within its legal rights, this punitive measure against democratically elected officials for their official acts contradicts norms of mutual respect and dialogue between two equal sovereign states.
“The DFA reminded the ambassador that as a democracy the PH values freedom of expression in the PH adherence to the constitutional separation of powers among the three branches of the govt it is the mandate of senators and other elected officials to inquire on matters of national and public interest,” it said.
“The department remains committed to addressing differences through diplomacy and dialogue and looks forward to continued constructive engagement with China to promote mutual understanding,” it added.
The Chinese government earlier banned Tolentino from entering the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong, and Macao. China cited his "egregious conduct on China-related issues," stating that Tolentino made "malicious remarks" detrimental to China's interests and to China-Philippines relations.
In response, Tolentino stated he acknowledges the sanctions, calling them a "badge of honor." He views the ban as a testament to his unwavering commitment to protecting the country’s interest and the dignity of the Filipino people. (TPM/SunStar Philippines)