By Darryl John Esguerra | Philippine News Agency
Malacañang on Tuesday rejected China’s accusation that the Philippines obstructed its participation in last week’s ASEAN defense meeting in Cebu, saying the government will not use its position as regional chair to disadvantage any country.
Palace Press Officer and Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said China was able to participate in the 13th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) through its defense attaché to the Philippines, Senior Captain Yang Lei, who was given an opportunity to convey Beijing’s views.
“Hindi po gagamitin ang anumang kapangyarihan o anumang posisyon para makalamang kung kaninuman,” Usec. Castro said at a Palace press briefing.
She added the Philippines did not prevent the participation of any ASEAN member or dialogue partner in the defense meeting.
China’s defense ministry earlier accused Manila of “erecting multiple obstacles” to its participation, claiming that the actions undermined ASEAN’s principle of consensus and the forum’s openness and inclusivity.
The allegation came after Beijing sent Yang instead of Defense Minister Dong Jun to the Cebu meeting, where defense chiefs from several countries, including the United States, Japan and Australia, were represented.
Usec. Castro said the Palace does not see the incident affecting the attendance of ASEAN leaders at the upcoming 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in Manila.
Asked whether the Philippines and other ASEAN members would issue a joint statement countering China’s narrative, she said no such proposal had been presented to the Palace.
The Palace mouthpiece also expressed hopes that Chinese President Xi Jinping would attend the leaders’ summit in mid-November, saying the gathering could provide an opportunity to discuss and resolve regional issues.
“Mas maganda po na dumating po talaga ang liderato ng China dahil mas magandang pagkakataon ito para mapag-usapan kung anuman iyong mga maaaring may gusot at doon magkaroon na pagkakataong maresolba,” she said.
The Philippines is hosting the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in mid-November, with preparations underway for regional leaders and dialogue partners. U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to join the regional summit.
