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Advocates Philippines
AFP Backs Teodoro After China Sanctions
Photo credit: DND
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has expressed full support for Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. after the Chinese government imposed sanctions against him and members of his family.
In a statement released on June 13, the AFP said it views the move as more than just an action against a Philippine official, describing it as an attempt to challenge the country's efforts to defend its sovereignty and national interests.
According to the military, Teodoro has been one of the strongest voices in protecting the Philippines' rights in the West Philippine Sea and within the country's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The AFP also noted his role in addressing security concerns, including alleged espionage-related threats and other activities seen as harmful to national interests.
“The AFP views these sanctions not merely as actions directed against a Philippine government official and his family, but as an attempt to undermine the legitimate exercise of our nation's sovereign rights and the principled defense of Philippine national interests,” the AFP said.
The military emphasized that Teodoro's actions reflect the Philippine government's commitment to safeguarding national security, territorial integrity, and maritime interests in accordance with international law.
The AFP likewise stressed that it remains committed to carrying out its constitutional mandate and will not be intimidated by external pressure.
“No external action or coercive measure will diminish our resolve to protect the Filipino people, uphold the rule of law, and safeguard our sovereignty, sovereign rights, and maritime domain,” the AFP added.
China's sanctions against Teodoro come amid ongoing tensions between Manila and Beijing over competing claims and activities in the West Philippine Sea.
In a statement released on June 13, the AFP said it views the move as more than just an action against a Philippine official, describing it as an attempt to challenge the country's efforts to defend its sovereignty and national interests.
According to the military, Teodoro has been one of the strongest voices in protecting the Philippines' rights in the West Philippine Sea and within the country's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The AFP also noted his role in addressing security concerns, including alleged espionage-related threats and other activities seen as harmful to national interests.
“The AFP views these sanctions not merely as actions directed against a Philippine government official and his family, but as an attempt to undermine the legitimate exercise of our nation's sovereign rights and the principled defense of Philippine national interests,” the AFP said.
The military emphasized that Teodoro's actions reflect the Philippine government's commitment to safeguarding national security, territorial integrity, and maritime interests in accordance with international law.
The AFP likewise stressed that it remains committed to carrying out its constitutional mandate and will not be intimidated by external pressure.
“No external action or coercive measure will diminish our resolve to protect the Filipino people, uphold the rule of law, and safeguard our sovereignty, sovereign rights, and maritime domain,” the AFP added.
China's sanctions against Teodoro come amid ongoing tensions between Manila and Beijing over competing claims and activities in the West Philippine Sea.
Jun 13, 2026
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