President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. Announced on Friday, October 16, 2026, that he will summon Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan to discuss remarks attributed to him regarding the use of force. The meeting is expected to take place within the next week.
The president's comments, which were reported in local media, suggested a critical stance toward China's military activities in the South China Sea. The remarks were interpreted as a challenge to China's territorial claims. The exact wording of the comments has not been officially released.
This is the second time Marcos has raised concerns about China's actions in the region. In June 2026, he expressed worries over China's growing military presence and its impact on regional stability. The current remarks follow a series of diplomatic tensions between the two nations, including disputes over maritime boundaries and trade policies.
The Philippines has been seeking closer ties with the United States while maintaining a delicate balance with China. Recent moves by Marcos have signaled a more assertive foreign policy, particularly in the South China Sea. The meeting with the Chinese ambassador is seen as a key step in managing bilateral relations amid rising regional tensions.
