BANGKOK — China’s government has imposed sanctions on a former Filipino lawmaker, citing his starkly “anti-China” stance and his role in authoring legislation that delineates the Philippines’ territorial claims in the contentious South China Sea. Francis Tolentino, who recently concluded his tenure as the majority leader of the Philippine Senate, faces a ban on entering China along with its territories, Hong Kong and Macao, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs declared.
The ministry released a statement criticizing certain Filipino politicians for engaging in “malicious” actions and remarks concerning China, motivated by their own interests. It asserted that these acts have damaged China’s interests and weakened diplomatic ties between the two nations. The statement further emphasized China’s resolve to protect its sovereignty, security, and developmental priorities.
In response, Tolentino took to the social media platform X, vowing to persist in advocating for what he views as his nation’s rightful claims. He described the sanction as a symbol of honor, asserting that he would not be silenced by any foreign nation.
Tolentino was the principal author of two legislative acts affirming the Philippines’ maritime claims in the South China Sea: the Philippine Maritime Zones Act and the Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act. Both laws, which were enacted last November, sought to reassert the country’s territorial rights and access to resources within these maritime zones. This legislative position was quickly dismissed by China, which has historically asserted nearly complete territorial claims over the South China Sea.
Reflecting on China’s reactions, Tolentino maintained that any objections must be addressed through a steadfast defense of the Philippines’ sovereign rights and alignment with lawful arbitration decisions. He also accused China of attempting to meddle in the upcoming Philippine mid-term elections set for May and had earlier launched inquiries into suspected Chinese intelligence operations while still in the Senate.
The Philippine government acknowledged the imposed sanctions, pointing out that while China is within its rights to enact such measures, these actions do not contribute positively to rebuilding mutual trust and enhancing bilateral relationships. This statement was echoed by the Philippines Department of Foreign Affairs.
Tensions between the Philippines and China remain high as disputes over territorial claims in the South China Sea often escalate, resulting in both verbal and physical confrontations. Instances of encounter have become increasingly frequent over the past two years between the naval and coast guard forces of the two countries. The Philippines has publicized several videos of Chinese vessels using water cannons, highlighting the ongoing conflict in the region.