The Chinese Embassy in the Philippines has been verbally attacking government officials, prompting Senator Risa Hontiveros to again call on the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to take action.

During a Kapehan sa Senado on Wednesday, Hontiveros called out what she described as the Chinese Embassy’s lack of respect, citing its remarks against Commodore Jay Tarriela and other Philippine officials involved in defending the country’s foreign policy interests.

She said the embassy’s actions violate the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and urged the DFA to formally address the matter.

Hontiveros suggested that the DFA call out the Chinese Embassy in Manila for what she described as unacceptable behavior and remind it of its obligations under the Vienna Convention.

“Masyado namang pa-victim ang pag-uugali ng Chinese Embassy dito sa Manila,” she said.

The senator also raised concerns over the situation in the West Philippine Sea, blaming China for the destruction of the country’s marine resources.

Hontiveros said lawmakers will continue to defend the national interest, stressing, “Hindi kami pwedeng tumigil at hindi kami titigil dahil lamang na-hurt yung feelings ng Chinese Embassy.”

She said she has already written to Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and hopes to receive a response so that the issue can be addressed directly.

Hontiveros added that she is hopeful the DFA is already taking steps to resolve the matter, emphasizing that foreign diplomatic missions have no right to verbally attack Philippine officials.