China Blames Philippine Official for Hurdles at ASEAN Defense Forum

China’s defense ministry accused a Philippine politician of creating barriers to its participation in the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus. The complaint was issued on Thursday as the two nations navigate worsening diplomatic ties.

Zhang Xiaogang, a ministry spokesperson, stated that the actions of a self-serving politician violated diplomatic norms. He claimed these moves ran counter to the inclusive spirit of the forum and undermined China’s rights. The ministry did not identify the specific official or detail the exact nature of the obstacles.

China was represented by a military attaché during the event in Cebu. This lower-level representation occurred because Defence Minister Dong Jun was likely attending a key Chinese Communist Party meeting in Beijing.

The friction in relations follows repeated confrontations in the South China Sea and recent sanctions imposed on Philippine Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro. Beijing claims sovereignty over most of the region through a nine-dash line that overlaps the exclusive economic zones of five other countries.

Teodoro responded later on Thursday by stating that ASEAN must determine how China’s voice is heard. He did not directly address the allegation of obstruction. The Philippines has maintained that its defense ministry sent a formal notice and invitation to the Chinese counterpart to join the forum.

The meeting took place this week in Cebu. Tensions remain high following the imposition of sanctions and the ongoing dispute over maritime boundaries.