Chinese Embassy rebukes De Lima over remarks on diplomats

The Chinese Embassy in Manila on Monday pushed back against remarks made by Congresswoman Leila de Lima, calling her statements “wrong and unhelpful” and defending the role of Chinese diplomats in the Philippines.

In a statement, Chinese Embassy spokesperson Ji Lingpeng stressed that the embassy and its diplomats are official representatives of China and are not in the country as “guests.”

“First of all, the Chinese Embassy and Chinese diplomats are the official representatives of China and the Chinese government. We are not in the Philippines to be your guests,” Ji said.

He cited Article 3 of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, saying it is “unambiguous” that an embassy is established to represent its country, conduct diplomacy, safeguard national interests and promote bilateral relations.

Ji also addressed de Lima’s remarks in the context of freedom of speech.

“Second, freedom of speech doesn't mean you are free to attack China but we don't have the right to defend ourselves,” he noted. “Our constitution fully protects freedom of speech. But you are right about one thing, that is you don’t have the freedom of libel and smear and will be held accountable.”

The spokesperson further criticized de Lima’s use of terms such as “dictatorship” to describe China and “wolf warriors” to label Chinese diplomats, calling such language “rude and disrespectful.”

“Such words are unbecoming of an elected official and not helpful to your public image,” Ji said. “If you want to win an argument, make your case with facts and reason, not emotional and strong words and poor logic.”

He added: “As your colleagues say respect begets respect. When you are so disrespectful to China and Chinese diplomats how can earn respect?”

Ji also questioned remarks about limiting diplomatic immunity or expelling diplomats.

“Fourth, when you talk about ‘limit’ to diplomatic immunity or kick someone out, are you trying to threaten Chinese Embassy again?” he said. “Before you play this old trick have you ever asked yourself if you have such authority? Do you believe repeated bluffing will work?”

The statement marks the latest exchange between the Chinese Embassy and Philippine officials amid heightened rhetoric over diplomatic conduct and bilateral issues.