President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. wants the government to respond firmly — but through diplomatic channels — amid the escalating exchange of statements between Philippine and Chinese officials over the West Philippine Sea (WPS), Malacañang said. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the President is aware of the growing tension, which has prompted some lawmakers to call for certain Chinese diplomats to be declared persona non grata following public remarks critical of Philippine officials. Castro relayed that the administration is aligning with the position of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), which earlier cautioned that declaring foreign envoys unwelcome is among the most serious diplomatic measures and should only be considered as a last resort.

Co, A. S. (2026, January 31-February 1). Marcos ‘firm with diplomacy’ amid WPS row with China. Panay News, p. 9.