The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) summoned Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan on Monday to protest its "serious concern and strong objection" to his recent statement which conveyed a threat that China "may easily win" if it wants to use force.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro told Jing that his statement was provocative and unacceptable, and does not contribute to creating understanding.

The agency noted that "it is not the place of a foreign mission to publicly criticize or taunt Philippine officials and legislators who are acting within their mandates."

"As a democracy, the Philippines values freedom of expression and a plurality of voices, and it will not accept attempts by a foreign envoy to intimidate those who exercise them," it added.

Lazaro stressed that such language aggravates a sensitive bilateral atmosphere and undermines the shared efforts of both countries to build mutual understanding and cooperation.

She also emphasized that sensitive issues are best addressed through established diplomatic channels and bilateral mechanisms, which preserve space for dialogue and engagement.

Despite the "provocative and unacceptable" remarks of Jing, the DFA assures to remain committed to candid dialogue and constructive engagement, in line with its mandate and the direction of the President Ferdinand Marcos Jr,.

"It will keep open lines of communication with China and work to stabilize bilateral relations, especially in non-sensitive areas, while firmly upholding the country’s consistent positions on important issues," it stated.

"The Department reserves the right to take further diplomatic action as it deems necessary," it added

In its Facebook page, the Chinese Embassy in Manila said the ambassador made ''strong demarches over the recent remarks of Philippine officials and politicians which take things out of context and constitute smear and slander against the Chinese side.''

Regarding the thinly veiled ''threat'', the Embassy said despite China's ''capacity, we don't have the intention to use force. Because we are friends and close neighbors. There is no need to use force.''

The meeting came as the Senate appears poised to declare the Chinese ambassador persona non grata. The Palace said it reaffirms the government's position to use dialogue in the West Philippine Sea issue.

''The government is not losing hope that Philippines-China relations will improve,'' said Palace Press Officer Claire Castro in a briefing.

Castro said President Marcos will attend the APEC Economic Leaders Meeting in Shenzhen from Nov 18 to 19. Robina Asido/PHS