The Philippines’ lawmakers and some public voices are urging President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to declare Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan persona non grata or expel him after remarks that lawmakers say imply China could use force in a maritime confrontation. In separate actions, Senate and House members file resolutions calling for the envoy’s removal, citing concerns about Philippine sovereignty and national interests.
The Palace acknowledges the anger but cautions against hasty steps. Presidential spokespersons say Marcos will not block legislative efforts to pursue a persona non grata declaration, while also indicating the President prefers diplomatic engagement rather than expulsion. Some outlets emphasize the political pressure: one highlights Sen. Kiko Pangilinan’s call for Marcos to expel the envoy, framing it as consistent with the government’s past enforcement against other figures; another notes the contrast between Hontiveros’ push for ouster and Robinhood Padilla’s praise after meeting Jing Quan. Other coverage stresses the Palace position that Marcos has not signaled intent to expel.
Overall, outlets converge on the same dispute and the resolutions, but differ in emphasis—on the lawmakers’ rhetoric and escalation in Congress, versus the Palace’s warnings and approach.
