China has sanctioned Philippine Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and his immediate family, banning them from entering mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao. Beijing says the move responds to repeated remarks by Teodoro that it claims have undermined China's sovereignty and bilateral relations.

The sanctions prohibit Teodoro, his spouse and their child from entering mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao. Chinese organisations and individuals are also barred from engaging in transactions or cooperation with them.

China's Foreign Ministry announced the measures on 11 June 2026, describing them as a response to actions it says have harmed China's core interests.

Beijing defends decision

Chinese Defence Ministry spokesman Senior Colonel Chen Xi defended the sanctions during a regular briefing, describing them as a legitimate step to safeguard China's sovereignty and security.

He said the Foreign Ministry had already explained the decision and insisted responsibility lay with Teodoro.

Chen also urged critics in the Philippines to avoid political provocations, warning that such actions could damage bilateral ties and military-to-military relations.

China has not specified which statements by Teodoro led to the sanctions. Officials have only said that he repeatedly made remarks that harmed China's interests and bilateral relations.

The lack of detail means the decision remains framed within broader political and security tensions between Beijing and Manila.

• Philippines backs defence chief after China sanctions
• China sends coast guard east of Taiwan over Japan-Philippines maritime talks
• China calls U.S. claims of military pressure on Taiwan a 'distortion'

Rare move against Philippine cabinet official

The sanctions are a rare measure against a serving Philippine cabinet-level official and signal a tougher approach by Beijing towards criticism from Manila.

They also underscore growing sensitivity within the Chinese leadership over Philippine defence and security messaging.

Teodoro is a key figure in shaping Manila's security policy towards China. He has backed stronger defence cooperation with the U.S. and other regional partners as regional tensions have intensified.

South China Sea tensions

China and the Philippines remain locked in disputes over territorial and maritime claims in the South China Sea.

The two countries have repeatedly confronted each other in waters near Scarborough Shoal and Second Thomas Shoal, with incidents involving coast guard and naval vessels. These encounters continue to fuel tensions and shape political rhetoric on both sides.

Broader diplomatic strain

Relations between China and the Philippines have steadily deteriorated in recent years due to overlapping maritime disputes and broader geopolitical competition.

Despite ongoing diplomatic engagement, both sides continue to trade accusations over sovereignty and security issues, highlighting the persistent strain in bilateral relations.

Tags

China Philippines defence Manila Beijing