Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan speaks at the New Year Media Party hosted by the Chinese Embassy in Manila on January 20, 2026. (Photo by Katrina Manubay)
Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Jing Quan on Tuesday night said that the embassy remains committed to promoting friendship and cooperation with the Philippines while firmly defending China’s national interests, asserting that Beijing will push back against what it described as ‘groundless attacks, smears, and the spread of fake news.’
During his keynote address at the Chinese Embassy’s New Year Media Party, Quan said that China is open to constructive dialogue and discussions about differences and disputes.
“We welcome constructive dialogue and discussion, including on differences and disputes, but we oppose groundless attacks and smears. If fake news is spread, if China is defamed or if hatred is incited, we will not remain patient and silent. We will push back firmly without hesitation. This is our duty. We have every legitimate right to let the public be aware of the basic facts and China’s position,” he said.
This statement comes in response to China’s diplomatic protest against Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela for social media posts deemed “attacking and smearing” Chinese leaders.
In his defense, Tarriela stated that his comments were not “smears” or “slanders,” but factual accounts supported by video evidence, photographs, official PCG reports, and third-party observations, including satellite imagery and statements from other nations.
Quan also acknowledged the existing maritime disputes between China and the Philippines, noting that Beijing has successfully managed similar disagreements with other neighboring countries through dialogue.
He expressed confidence that both nations can effectively manage their differences.
“At present, the diplomats on the two sides are working toward this goal, and have already reached preliminary consensus on a roadmap for the next stage of dialogue and negotiation. This year, the Philippines is chairing ASEAN. Both sides hope to accelerate negotiations on the Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea. To this end, consultations are becoming more frequent and more intensive,” he added.
In November, Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Theresa Lazaro stated that the Philippines intends to uphold the commitments made by regional leaders in 2023 regarding the South China Sea COC, aiming to finalize the agreement this year.
Additionally, Quan welcomed positive measures such as visa-free policies and opposed any actions that could hinder or undermine efforts to strengthen China-Philippines relations.
On January 15, the DFA announced that Chinese nationals could enter the Philippines visa-free for up to 14 days, effective January 16.
Jing Quan arrived in the Philippines and presented his credentials to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on December 12.
He succeeded Huang Xilian, who served as China’s ambassador to the Philippines since December 2019 after presenting his credentials to former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Quan previously held the position of minister and Deputy Chief of Mission at the People’s Republic of China in Washington, D.C.
