President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said he wants to discuss Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan’s remark that China could “easily win” a conflict with the Philippines, describing it as a possible threat and an undiplomatic statement.
Jing made the remark while defending Beijing’s position amid tensions over the West Philippine Sea and criticizing Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr.’s description of China as a regional troublemaker.
Teodoro called the statement a form of intimidation, while the Department of Foreign Affairs expressed concern that it could undermine trust and diplomatic relations.
Several lawmakers also condemned the ambassador’s remarks, with Sen. Risa Hontiveros demanding a formal apology and warning that he could be declared persona non grata if he refuses.
Other lawmakers and groups urged the government to stand firm in defending Philippine sovereignty and called for accountability over the ambassador’s statements.
Source: PhilNews24 | October 17, 2026
