President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.criticized China's decision to sanction Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., calling it 'unhelpful' as it escalates tensions between the Philippines and China.

During a press conference in Vancouver, Canada, Marcos argued that the sanctions, which bar the Teodoro family from entering mainland China and conducting transactions there, do little to resolve the ongoing territorial disputes in the South China Sea.

He emphasized that the sanctions are more of a reaction to Teodoro's public criticisms of China rather than a step toward de-escalating hostilities.

The sanctions were imposed in June 2026, following incidents involving Chinese vessels and the Philippine Coast Guard, including a collision near Scarborough Shoal and a confrontation during a resupply mission to the grounded BRP Sierra Madre.

Marcos expressed concern over the potential for accidental clashes and stressed the importance of maintaining open communication channels with Beijing to manage tensions.

He also warned about the risks of policy shifts after his term ends in 2028, highlighting the Philippines' commitment to upholding its maritime claims under international law.

The article underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics between the Philippines and China, with both nations navigating disputes over the South China Sea's resources and sovereignty.