The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has expressed concern over a statement by the Chinese Embassy in Manila which linked potential job losses in the Philippines to the tensions between Manila and Beijing, urging the embassy to exercise caution in its tone and language.

The DFA said such rhetoric risks being perceived as “coercive” and undermines a constructive dialogue, which the Philippines and China strive to promote amid an increasingly verbal row between Filipino officials and Beijing’s envoy.

“[W]e take strong exception to the embassy’s tone, which appears to imply that such cooperation could be withheld as a form of leverage or retaliation,” the DFA said on Monday.

Earlier this week, embassy spokesperson Ji Lingpeng warned that any serious damage to Manila and Beijing’s diplomatic ties could cost the Philippines “millions of jobs.”

His statement followed a series of sharp exchanges between Filipino senators and Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Jing Quan in connection with the so-called “anti-China” resolution adopted recently by the Senate which had denounced Beijing’s inflammatory remarks against Philippine Coast Guard Commodore Jay Tarriela over his critical statements and use of caricatures of Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The embassy took offense at the caricatures, calling it a “blatant political provocation” that had “crossed the red line.”

“Are the senators prepared to personally compensate those who may lose their incomes? Or is grandstanding easier when someone else pays the price?” Ji said.

Senate President Vicente Sotto had proposed that Jing be declared persona non grata, while Senators JV Ejercito and Raffy Tulfo called for his replacement, citing increased hostility between the Philippines and China under his tenure.

Ji has repeatedly ridiculed the senators for their alleged ignorance of how diplomacy works, yet his own actions have sabotaged efforts to improve China-Philippines relations.

The DFA reminded China anew to “adopt a responsible and measured tone in public exchanges,” stating that the agency remains committed to promoting diplomatic dialogue despite the diverging stances of the Philippines and China.

“The DFA values cooperation with all states across economic, cultural, and other domains, as it delivers clear benefits to the Philippines and its people,” the agency said.

Ji, in response, said Tuesday the Chinese embassy was in agreement with the DFA to resolve disputes through dialogue and consultation.

Nonetheless, he argued that this will not weaken their resolve to “oppose any slander or smear against China, as well as irresponsible remarks that incite hatred.”

In addition, Ji urged the DFA to double down on its efforts and remind Philippine officials to be cautious with their statements against China “to prevent any undermining or harm to ongoing diplomatic efforts.”