Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. says sanctions imposed by China on him and his family are linked to the Philippine government’s efforts against alleged illegal activities involving Chinese-linked interests in the country. Teodoro, speaking in separate reports, says Beijing described the sanctions as a response to “erroneous statements,” but he argues his remarks are based on his disclosures and commentary regarding the West Philippine Sea. He maintains that his public criticism is related to what he describes as China’s actions in the area and to alleged unlawful operations connected to Chinese interests. The reports also state that Teodoro connects the timing of the sanctions to Philippine authorities’ actions against operations he characterizes as undermining national security and economic interests. Teodoro’s position is that the sanctions are therefore connected not only to his statements on maritime issues but also to a broader campaign against illegal activities that he says involve Chinese-linked operators. The accounts reflect Teodoro’s claims; they do not include China’s detailed explanation beyond its reference to “erroneous statements.”