Teodoro challenges Wang Yi’s call for prudence amid escalating tensions with China

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
November 04, 2026

Photo Courtesy: AFP

Department of National Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. has questioned China’s call for the Philippines to exercise prudence in dealing with bilateral tensions, asking whether restraint means telling a lie about the situation in the West Philippine Sea.

Teodoro made the remarks in response to Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who urged Manila to be cautious in its words and actions during a phone conversation with Foreign Affairs Secretary Theresa Lazaro on Tuesday.

“What is prudence? Tell a lie?” Teodoro said, pushing back against Beijing’s appeal for restraint.

Wang reportedly told Lazaro that the relationship between the two countries was facing what China described as “malicious interference” from certain Philippine politicians. He also called on Manila to rein in those he accused of disrupting bilateral relations and to maintain a unified position on China.

The exchange comes amid a series of diplomatic disagreements between Manila and Beijing, particularly over the South China Sea.

The latest dispute followed China’s accusation that the Philippines deliberately obstructed its participation in the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus held in Cebu on October 28 and 29.

Beijing claimed Teodoro had delayed the invitation to Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun, resulting in China sending a lower-ranking representative instead.

Teodoro rejected the allegation, maintaining that China had been invited and given the opportunity to participate. He also denied claims that other ASEAN members had questioned the Philippines’ handling of the matter.

The defense chief argued that China should not speak on behalf of ASEAN members or claim to represent their concerns.

Tensions further escalated after Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Jing Quan said Beijing could easily win if it chose to use force, although he maintained that China preferred peace. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. described the ambassador’s remarks as sounding like a threat.

Despite the sharp exchanges, Manila and Beijing have agreed to continue diplomatic discussions. Their foreign ministers also discussed the possible resumption of stalled negotiations on joint oil and gas exploration in Reed Bank, an area within the Philippines’ 200-nautical-mile exclusive economic zone but also claimed by China.

The latest statements underscore the continuing challenge of managing diplomatic relations while the two countries remain at odds over maritime claims and activities in the South China Sea.