Chinese Embassy Urges Probe into Anti-China Casket Displays in Metro Manila

The Chinese Embassy in Manila has called on Philippine authorities to investigate the recent display of caskets bearing anti-China messages found in various locations across Metro Manila. The embassy described the incident as a serious political provocation and a direct threat to the safety of Chinese diplomatic personnel in the Philippines.

In a statement released on Friday, embassy spokesperson Ji Lingpeng characterized the casket displays as acts of personal attack, intimidation, and threats of an egregious nature. The embassy has formally communicated its concerns to the Philippine government, urging a thorough investigation and the prosecution of those responsible for the incident.

The embassy also emphasized the need for enhanced security measures to protect Chinese diplomatic and consular missions and their staff in the country. Ji Lingpeng expressed concern that certain individuals with ulterior motives are deliberately attempting to incite hatred and provoke confrontation between the peoples of China and the Philippines.

The call for investigation came shortly after the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) condemned the casket displays. The DFA underscored that threats or acts of violence against foreign nationals and officials are unacceptable and that the Philippine government remains committed to upholding its obligations under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations to ensure the safety and security of foreign diplomats and nationals.

Authorities have been actively investigating the incident. The National Capital Region Police reported the recovery of five wooden caskets in different parts of Metro Manila, including Santa Cruz in Manila; Barangay 54 in Caloocan City; Barangay South Triangle and Barangay Santa Teresita in Quezon City; and along Gil Puyat Avenue in Makati City.

Despite the provocative nature of the incident, Ji Lingpeng reaffirmed the embassy’s commitment to maintaining stable and constructive bilateral relations between China and the Philippines. He stated that attempts to spread hatred or fuel confrontation would not undermine China’s confidence in fostering and developing the relationship between the two countries.

The embassy’s appeal highlights ongoing tensions and the sensitivity surrounding diplomatic relations in the region. It also reflects the importance both countries place on ensuring the safety of diplomatic personnel and maintaining peaceful ties despite political disagreements or provocations.

The Philippine government continues to coordinate with law enforcement agencies to identify those responsible for the casket displays and to prevent similar incidents in the future. The investigation aims to uphold the country’s international commitments and to preserve the security environment for all foreign missions operating within its borders.