AFP, PCG officials back Teodoro after China's sanctions
Published Jun 13, 2026 02:37 pm
At A Glance
- For his part, Teodoro said the sanctions would not affect his work as defense secretary, vowing to continue performing his duties and supporting government efforts against activities that weaken the country.
Defense Secretary GIlberto Teodoro Jr. (File photo: IISS Shangri-La Dialogue)
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Saturday, June 13, expressed support for Department pf National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. following China's decision to impose sanctions on him and his immediate family members.
In a statement issued by Col. Xerxes Trinidad, chief of AFP public affairs office, he said the military stands with Teodoro, describing the sanctions as an attempt to undermine the legitimate exercise of the country's sovereign rights and the defense of Philippine national interests.
"The AFP remains resolute in carrying out its constitutional mandate and rejects any attempt to intimidate or pressure those who stand in defense of the nation," the military said.
The AFP also cited Teodoro's advocacy for the protection of Philippine sovereignty, sovereign rights, and maritime entitlements, particularly in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) and within the country's exclusive economic zone.
Retired admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, AFP spokesperson for WPS, likewise expressed support for the defense chief.
In a separate statement, Trinidad described the sanctions as "unilateral and ungrounded" and defended Teodoro's statements in international forums, saying they reflected international law, the 2016 Arbitral Award, and the sovereign rights of Filipinos.
Trinidad said the AFP would continue carrying out its constitutional mandate, including maritime and aerial patrols in the WPS.
Meanwhile, PCG spokesperson for WPS Rear Adm. Jay Tarriela praised Teodoro's stance on issues involving Philippine sovereignty.
"Beijing can bar whomever it likes—that is their right. But sanctioning a man and his family for telling the truth and standing up for his country's sovereignty is not strength," Tarriela said.
Tarriela added that the sanctions reflected Teodoro's firm position against China's "bullying" and "illegal activities" in the WPS.
Gibo vows to continue working
For his part, Teodoro said the sanctions would not affect his work as defense secretary, vowing to continue performing his duties and supporting government efforts against activities that weaken the country.
Teodoro maintained that his statements regarding China were based on facts concerning developments in the WPS and alleged illegal activities in the Philippines.
He also stressed that his remarks were not directed at Chinese nationals but at actions that undermine Philippine interests.
The defense chief reiterated his opposition to China's claims within the so-called nine-dash line and said the DND would continue strengthening the AFP and deepening security cooperation with allies.
"Makakaasa po kayo na lalo ko pang itutuloy ang tungkulin ko," Teodoro said.
Earlier this week, China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that it had barred Teodoro, his spouse, and child from entering mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau.
It also prohibited Chinese organizations and individuals from engaging in transactions, cooperation, or other activities with them.
It said the sanctions were imposed to protect Beijing's sovereignty, security, and development interests.
The Chinese government claimed the defense chief had repeatedly made “irresponsible remarks” that harmed China's interests and damaged China-Philippines relations. The ministry did not identify the specific statements that prompted the action.
In recent years, Teodoro has made pointed remarks against China's actions in disputed waters in the South China Sea.
During the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore last month, Teodoro criticized China's continued presence in the WPS and accused Beijing of undermining efforts to conclude a regional code of conduct.