THE Chinese Embassy in Manila warned it will respond firmly to any attacks or smears against China, while stressing that its “fundamental duty” remains promoting friendship and cooperation with the Philippines. Embassy spokesman Ji Lingpeng said recent debates were sparked by attacks on Chinese leadership by Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesman on West Philippine Sea concerns Commodore Jay Tarriela, as well as anti-China resolutions introduced by certain senators, which China “firmly opposes and condemns.” “China welcomes constructive dialogue but opposes any remarks or attempts to spread disinformation, incite hostility, or undermine China-Philippines relations,” Ji said. “You have the right to express your views, and we also have the right to defend our positions. No one should be silenced.” Citing a Chinese proverb, Ji added that China does not provoke others but will respond firmly when challenged. “We do not offend others unless being offended. China’s position is clear: words for words, actions for actions, and talk for talk,” he said. Ji also described Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Jing Quan’s recent meeting with Sen. Erwin Tulfo as “candid, constructive, and forward-looking,” with discussions covering maintaining open diplomatic channels, strengthening coast guard cooperation, and advancing the Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea. He clarified that the meeting was arranged by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), not by the embassy, as part of ongoing diplomatic engagement between the two countries. “Any conflict would inevitably harm the long-term relationship between the two neighboring countries,” Ji quoted Ambassador Jing. “China and the Philippines have the ability and wisdom to properly manage our differences on maritime issues. The best option is to sit down for talks and solutions in a diplomatic way.” He added that the statement referred to handling maritime disputes through dialogue and was not aimed at specific Philippine legislators or to moderate domestic debate. During the meeting with Tulfo, Jing outlined China’s positions on bilateral relations, the Taiwan question, and maritime issues, Ji said. The two officials agreed to keep diplomatic channels open, strengthen dialogue between the coast guards, and prioritize cooperation over confrontation. Ji pointed out the mutual recognition of opportunities to advance the Code of Conduct this year and mentioned further cooperation in people-to-people exchanges, law enforcement, trade, and investment. Ji cited recent progress in restoring political dialogue, facilitating visa applications, increasing direct flights, deepening trade and economic cooperation, and combating transnational crime. The embassy pledged to continue promoting dialogue and exchanges to bring China-Philippines relations “back on track at an early date.”