Philippines, China agree to keep diplomatic channels open amid rising tensions

ASM, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
November 05, 2026

Photo courtesy: Reuters

The Philippines and China have agreed to continue diplomatic talks despite renewed tensions over the West Philippine Sea and recent exchanges between officials of both countries.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi discussed their countries’ strained relations during a telephone conversation on Tuesday, November 3.

In a statement released Wednesday, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) described the discussion as frank and constructive, with both sides recognizing the importance of managing disagreements through peaceful dialogue.

The two officials emphasized mutual respect, continued diplomatic engagement and the need to avoid statements or actions that could further escalate tensions.

The conversation followed a diplomatic dispute involving Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan, who previously claimed that China could easily defeat the Philippines if it chose to use force.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. described the remarks as sounding like a threat, while the DFA summoned the Chinese envoy and formally objected to his statements.

Beijing, meanwhile, has criticized remarks made by Philippine officials about China.

During his conversation with Lazaro, Wang accused some Filipino politicians of making statements that crossed China’s diplomatic red lines, according to Beijing’s account of the call.

He also urged Manila to exercise caution in handling maritime disputes and reaffirm its adherence to the One China Policy.

The Philippine government, however, has maintained that diplomatic engagement does not weaken its commitment to defending its sovereignty and maritime rights.

In a separate statement on Wednesday, Malacañang reiterated that Philippine officials remain free to uphold the country’s interests in the West Philippine Sea while the government pursues diplomatic solutions.

The talks also covered upcoming regional meetings, including the 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Manila and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Shenzhen, China.

According to the DFA, Lazaro conveyed Marcos’ anticipation of Chinese Premier Li Qiang’s participation in the ASEAN summit. Wang, meanwhile, welcomed the Philippine president’s expected attendance at the APEC gathering.

Both sides also discussed maintaining communication through diplomatic channels and existing bilateral and regional mechanisms.

The Philippines and China remain divided over competing maritime claims in the South China Sea. A 2016 international arbitral ruling rejected the legal basis for China’s expansive claims, but Beijing has refused to recognize the decision.

The DFA reaffirmed that Manila would continue pursuing peaceful engagement while protecting Philippine sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction.