Key facts
- Five caskets bearing anti-China messages were discovered in Manila.
- One casket was placed outside the Chinese embassy.
The Philippines Department of Foreign Affairs stated it does not condone threats of violence after five caskets with anti-China messages were discovered in Manila, including one outside the Chinese embassy. China protested the incident, calling it a "political provocation."
The incident highlights escalating tensions between the Philippines and China, particularly concerning the South China Sea, and underscores the challenges in diplomatic relations when faced with public displays of hostility.
The Philippines foreign ministry stated it does not condone threats of violence against foreign officials following the discovery of five caskets containing anti-China messages in Manila early Friday morning. China's embassy in Manila described the incident as a "political provocation" and urged authorities to investigate and bring those responsible to justice.
Philippine police found the abandoned caskets across the capital before dawn. One casket, left outside the Chinese embassy, bore photos of Chinese President Xi Jinping, Foreign Minister Wang Yi, and Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Jing Quan, along with the word "greedy."
The Philippines Department of Foreign Affairs issued a statement saying such actions do not reflect the government's approach to foreign relations or how Filipinos express criticism, even on sensitive matters. Chinese embassy spokesperson Ji Lingpeng stated the caskets aimed to sow hostility but would not undermine bilateral ties.
The incident occurs amid heightened tensions between Manila and Beijing over the South China Sea, where both nations have had frequent confrontations regarding disputed maritime features.