Philippines releases 64 Chinese detainees, evidence review

Sixty-four Chinese citizens detained in the Philippines have been released after the country's justice department determined there was insufficient evidence for the allegations against them, according to the Chinese embassy in Manila. The individuals, who worked at a steel plant in Misamis Oriental province, were detained on May 15 and faced allegations including violations of nuclear safety, immigration, and labor laws. The embassy stated that six more Chinese nationals are undergoing processing for their release.

The release follows a series of diplomatic exchanges between Manila and Beijing regarding the treatment of Chinese citizens in the Philippines. The Chinese embassy said it had lodged repeated formal representations with Philippine authorities over what it described as frequent apprehensions of Chinese nationals. In a statement, embassy spokesperson Ji Lingpeng urged Philippine authorities to handle cases involving Chinese citizens fairly and in accordance with law, ensuring their personal safety, legitimate rights, and humane treatment. The embassy also called for strict compliance with a bilateral consular agreement requiring notification of Chinese diplomatic...