FILE

KALAYAAN, Palawan, Philippines — In a symbolic but politically significant move, the municipal council of Kalayaan Town declared Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan persona non grata on January 27, 2026, citing concerns over diplomatic conduct and increasing tensions in the West Philippine Sea.

Local officials described the decision as a message against what they called “diplomatic overreach” by the Chinese Embassy, emphasizing that the resolution reflects frustration among residents and personnel in the town’s remote outposts, including Pag-asa Island.

While the declaration expresses local sentiment, authorities stressed that only the Philippine President has the legal authority to expel a foreign envoy. As such, the measure is largely symbolic, intended to highlight Kalayaan’s position on protecting its residents and asserting local sovereignty.

The Chinese Embassy responded by reiterating that the ambassador would abide by the proper diplomatic process and noted that only national authorities can act on a persona non grata declaration.

The move comes amid continued monitoring of Chinese maritime presence in the area, though specific vessel counts cited in some reports have not been independently verified. Kalayaan’s leaders have also reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing infrastructure and development projects, including the expansion of Pag-asa Island Airport and the construction of shelter ports to protect local fishermen.

The council said the declaration is a clear signal that the town will continue to assert its rights and protect its residents, even as broader diplomatic and maritime tensions persist in the region.