The Chinese Foreign Ministry has called on the Philippines to avoid acting as a proxy for external powers amid growing tensions over Manila’s deepening military ties with Washington. Spokesperson Guo Jiakun issued a sharp rebuke on Tuesday, warning that defense cooperation 'should not target any third party or harm their interests,' emphasizing the risks of escalating regional instability.
Guo’s remarks followed reports about U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth’s planned visit to the Philippines this week, with analysts interpreting the move as part of broader U.S. efforts to strengthen partnerships in the Indo-Pacific. 'Opening the door to a predator brings no good,' Guo stated, using vivid language to criticize alliances perceived as threatening to Beijing’s strategic interests.
The spokesperson specifically criticized Philippine Ambassador to the U.S. Jose Manuel Romualdez for remarks supporting the collaboration, urging Manila not to pursue 'stunts for personal political agendas.' The exchange highlights growing friction in the South China Sea, where overlapping territorial claims and intensified foreign military activity continue to strain regional diplomacy.
Business leaders and investors are closely watching the developments, as geopolitical tensions could impact trade routes and energy security in one of Asia’s most critical waterways. Academics note that the Philippines’ balancing act between Washington and Beijing remains a litmus test for Southeast Asia’s autonomy amid great-power competition.
