MANILA, Philippines —The Philippines, through the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), said Beijing's sanctions against Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and his family were deemed "unfriendly act that further complicates" ties between the Philippines and China.
"While the imposition of sanctions is China’s sovereign prerogative, the Philippines views it as an unfriendly act that further complicates the bilateral relations," said Foreign Affairs spokesperson Analyn Ratonel in a statement Thursday.
"Such measures do not contribute to building mutual trust, managing differences responsibly, or creating the conditions necessary for constructive engagement between our two countries," she added.
China on Thursday barred Teodoro and his immediate family from entering mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao, and prohibited Chinese organizations and individuals from conducting business with them.
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The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the sanctions after accusing Teodoro of making irresponsible remarks that "undermines China’s legitimate interests and sabotages China-Philippines relations."
It did not specify what specific remarks it was referring to.
Teodoro, like many other Philippine government officials, had been vocal in asserting the Philippines' rights and interests over the West Philippine Sea.