Written by Kenji Tanaka |
The Philippines expelled China consul general in Manila on Friday and ordered the immediate closure of China consulate in Davao citing credible evidence of espionage and political interference operations targeting Philippine government officials. Foreign Secretary Sara Duterte confirmed the expulsion in a nationally televised address. The move marks the most aggressive act by Manila against Chinese officials since the 2016 South China Sea arbitration ruling. China called the expulsion groundless and demanded Manila reverse its decision. The US State Department voiced strong support.
Sources: Reuters, AP, Philippines Daily Inquirer, ABS-CBN News, BBC, South China Morning Post