Philippine Defense Chief Sanctioned by China After Calling It the 'Greatest External Threat'

China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson announced late on the 11th that sanctions have been imposed on Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro and his relatives, accusing him of repeatedly making 'erroneous remarks' about China that harm China's legitimate interests and undermine bilateral relations.

The Chinese government has banned Teodoro, his spouse, and children from entering mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau. It has also prohibited any Chinese organizations or individuals from conducting transactions or cooperation with them.

Earlier, Philippine media outlet Politiko, citing sources, reported that Teodoro and his family had been placed on China's entry ban list, and that Chinese authorities were investigating whether his family holds assets in China. If confirmed, those assets could be frozen or placed under control.

Teodoro has repeatedly spoken out on South China Sea disputes, regional security, Taiwan-related issues, and China's influence operations in the Philippines. In March 2025, he publicly stated that China's increasingly aggressive behavior in the South China Sea constitutes the greatest threat to Philippine national security and should be seen as a global threat, calling China's 'aggression and expansionism' the 'greatest external threat' to the Philippines.

In June of the same year, during the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Teodoro criticized China for violating its pledge of 'never seeking hegemony' and for bullying smaller neighboring countries in the South China Sea.

In September, when Taiwan's Foreign Minister Joseph Wu reportedly led a trade delegation to the Philippines, China issued a stern warning not to cross its 'red lines,' threatening consequences. Teodoro responded by telling Beijing not to impose red lines on the Philippines, stating that China's 'red lines' do not apply to the sovereign nation.

On May 30 this year, again at the Shangri-La Dialogue, Teodoro emphasized that countries like the Philippines face serious territorial and political threats from China, asserting that 'we have no choice but to remain resilient and resist Chinese aggression.'

On the afternoon of June 3, while visiting a military camp in Cagayan de Oro in southern Philippines, Teodoro responded to questions, stating he has no assets in China and no intention of traveling there.

He noted that his ancestors migrated from China to the Philippines about six to seven generations ago and have never returned, adding, 'That was the right decision; otherwise, I might not have reached my current position.'

Teodoro added that he once considered visiting China due to its renowned cuisine and friendly people, but these positives are overshadowed by China's authoritarian regime.

'It's not that I don't want to go,' he said. 'Such a large country with such rich culture naturally interests anyone. But the Chinese government's way of depriving people of their rights makes me think twice.'