China urged to dial down tensions as envoy calls for dialogue

China and the Philippines should “sit down” and find ways to manage their differences, Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan said Tuesday night, even as tensions over the West Philippine Sea continue to animate Manila’s diplomatic and legislative circles.

Speaking at a Chinese New Year reception, Jing stressed that Beijing wants to broaden cooperation but will “firmly push back” against what it calls “false narratives” and “misinformation” related to disputes between officials of both countries. 

He said dialogue and serious political consultations — especially on a long‑sought Code of Conduct (COC) for the South China Sea — remain vital, particularly with the Philippines serving as ASEAN chair this year.

Jing’s remarks mirrored a broader push for calm diplomacy amid repeated diplomatic frictions in recent weeks.

The Philippine Senate on the same day unanimously adopted Senate Resolution No. 256, condemning statements by the Chinese Embassy that criticized Philippine officials defending the country’s sovereignty in the maritime row — a move that sparked sharp reactions from both sides.

Beijing dismissed the Senate measure as an “anti‑China political stunt,” with its embassy accusing Filipino legislators of “threats” and “intimidation” toward Chinese diplomats — prompting a rebuke from Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III, who said respect must be mutual.

The diplomatic balancing act comes amid broader regional developments. Manila’s top envoy to Washington, Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez, reiterated confidence that the United States will continue to support the Philippines in countering China’s assertiveness in the South China Sea, even as Washington and Beijing explore high‑level talks to reset their relations.

Romualdez highlighted ongoing security cooperation and economic engagement with Washington, noting a $2.5‑billion security package approved by the U.S. Congress, while reaffirming Manila’s willingness to maintain constructive ties with Beijing.

Analysts say the Philippines is now navigating multiple diplomatic fronts — maintaining alliance ties with the United States, pushing for a binding COC through ASEAN, and engaging China through channels like the ambassador’s call for dialogue — as it seeks to protect both its territorial rights and broader economic interests.