Chinese Embassy Criticizes Philippine Coast Guard Spokesperson

Manila, Philippines - The Chinese embassy in Manila sharply criticized Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela on Tuesday for what it described as repeated defamatory remarks and distortions about China, escalating a public dispute rooted in tensions over the South China Sea. The embassy accused Tarriela of spreading disinformation, including during a January 14 university presentation that it claimed smeared Chinese President Xi Jinping, and warned that such actions undermine bilateral relations.

The controversy intensified after Tarriela posted a social media image in mid-January, which the embassy viewed as an attack on Xi's dignity. In response, Deputy Spokesperson Guo Wei questioned Tarriela's credibility on Facebook, asking, "Telling the truth? How many times have you lied?" The embassy reiterated China's stance that maritime disputes with the Philippines must be resolved through bilateral negotiations and consultations, rejecting multilateral approaches. It also highlighted China's restraint in the region, noting that it has allowed resupply missions to a grounded Philippine warship and assisted in recent rescues of Filipino seafarers near Scarborough...