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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider 'Irresponsible and disrespectful': DFA condemns caskets bearing anti-Chinese message, vows accountability

'Irresponsible and disrespectful': DFA condemns caskets bearing anti-Chinese message, vows accountability

DFA says threats of violence against foreign nationals and officials do not reflect Philippine foreign policy or the values of Filipinos

Published Aug 7, 2026 11:36 am

At A Glance

  • The DFA condemned the display of caskets bearing an anti-Chinese message, calling the act irresponsible, disrespectful, and unacceptable.
  • The department said freedom of expression does not extend to threats of violence or actions that endanger others.
  • Authorities are investigating the incident as the DFA coordinates with law enforcement to establish the circumstances and determine accountability.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) condemned the display of caskets bearing an anti-Chinese message, saying threats of violence against foreign nationals and officials are unacceptable and do not reflect the Philippines' conduct of foreign relations. (DFA file photo)
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) condemned the display of caskets bearing an anti-Chinese message, saying threats of violence against foreign nationals and officials are unacceptable and do not reflect the Philippines' conduct of foreign relations. (DFA file photo)
Stressing that threats or acts of violence against any individual, including foreign nationals and government officials, are unacceptable, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Friday, Aug. 7, strongly condemned the display of caskets bearing an anti-Chinese message.
In a statement, the DFA said it "does not condone acts or threats of violence against any individual, including foreign nationals or officials."
"Such irresponsible and disrespectful acts cannot be tolerated," the DFA said.
Freedom of expression has limits, DFA says
While recognizing the constitutional right to freedom of expression, the DFA emphasized that this right does not extend to threats of violence or actions that endanger the safety and security of others.
The department said such acts are inconsistent with the Philippine government's conduct of foreign relations and do not represent how Filipinos express criticism or dissatisfaction, even on sensitive political issues.
"While the Philippines upholds the right to freedom of expression, the DFA emphasizes that this right does not extend to threats of violence or acts that endanger the safety and security of others," it said.
The DFA added that these actions "do not reflect the Philippine government's approach to conducting its foreign relations, nor do they represent how Filipinos express criticism or dissatisfaction, even on sensitive political matters."
Reaffirms commitment to protect foreign nationals
The DFA also reiterated the Philippine government's commitment to ensuring the safety and security of foreign nationals and officials in the country.
"The Philippine government reaffirms that it takes seriously its duties and obligations concerning the safety and security of foreign nationals and officials in the country," the DFA said.
It noted that the Philippines continues to fulfill its obligations under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, which require host states to protect diplomatic and consular personnel.
Investigation underway
The DFA said it is coordinating closely with law enforcement authorities, which are investigating the incident to determine the circumstances surrounding the display of the caskets and identify those responsible.
"The DFA is closely coordinating with law enforcement authorities, which are taking the necessary steps to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine accountability for this reckless act," the department said. 

Related Tags

DFA Department of Foreign Affairs Anti-Chinese message Philippines-China relations Vienna Convention
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