Philippines Rebuts China’s Travel Advisory on Security Risks

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The Philippines government pushed back today against China’s advisory warning its citizens about alleged crime risks in the country. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) called the advisory a "mischaracterisation" of the security landscape.

Angelica Escalona, DFA spokesperson, emphasised that local authorities are actively addressing crimes, including those involving Chinese nationals victimising their own compatriots. "The relevant travel advisories issued by China mischaracterise the situation in the Philippines," Escalona stated.

This response follows China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs urging its citizens to reconsider travel plans, citing rising safety concerns. China’s embassy in Manila claimed a declining public safety environment alongside increasing incidents targeting Chinese individuals.

In a related move last Saturday, China’s education ministry cautioned against studying in the Philippines, pointing to a perceived surge in malicious incidents. The embassy, when asked for specifics, has yet to provide detailed incident reports.

This scenario echoes a similar advisory from China in April, referencing an “unstable security situation” in the Philippines.

Despite tensions, Escalona reiterated the Philippines' commitment to dialogue, aiming to address mutual concerns constructively. During the recent Philippines-China Joint Consular Consultation Meeting, both nations discussed law enforcement cooperation to combat these issues.

This ongoing diplomatic dialogue highlights the complexity of bilateral relations, underscoring the need for careful diplomacy and mutual understanding.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from PhilStar 2025-09-01