AFP backs Teodoro amid China’s criticism of suspending military communication
The Commission on Appointments confirms the selection of Gilberto “Gibo” Teodoro Jr. as secretary of the Department of National Defense in Pasay City on September 13, 2023. Mark Demayo, ABS-CBN News MANILA — The Armed Forces of the Philippines on Tuesday said it supports Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. amid criticism from the Chinese Embassy over the suspension of direct military communication channels between the Philippines and China.
Rear Adm. Roy Vincent Trinidad, AFP spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, said during a press briefing at Camp Aguinaldo that communication must be matched by China’s actions.
He said communication mechanisms must be “anchored [on] mutual trust, sincerity, and support of international law” to work.
“Bilateral dialogue will be effective if the messages match the actions on sea, air, and ground,” Trinidad said.
He accused the Communist Party of China of using direct communication channels as a “smokescreen” for what he described as China’s illegal presence, aggressive actions, and deceptive messaging in the country’s maritime domain and on land.
Trinidad also assured the public that the AFP would continue its maritime patrols, aerial operations, maritime domain awareness activities, and rotation and reprovisioning (RORE) missions.
He added that the BRP Sierra Madre would remain a commissioned vessel of the Philippine Navy at Ayungin Shoal.
“[Y]our AFP will ensure that our flag remains flying high and proud over our maritime domain,” Trinidad said.
In a statement dated October 12, the Chinese Embassy in Manila criticized Teodoro’s decision, accusing the defense chief of suspending military-to-military communication with China for “political self-interests.”
It said channels must remain open “to avoid miscalculation and prevent tensions from escalating” despite difficult bilateral relations.
It also warned that the move could fuel mistrust, limit opportunities for crisis management, and bring frontline personnel closer to confrontation.
In a Facebook post on October 13, Teodoro said military-to-military ties between the Philippines and China have been suspended for nearly three years.
He described the Chinese Embassy’s statement as a “desperate move,” claiming it was prompted by China being caught in what he called its “kalokohan (foolishness).”