Malacañang said it has no reaction to the meeting between Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte and Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Jing Quan, held amid heightened tensions surrounding the West Philippine Sea issue.
The mayor and the Chinese envoy met as debates continue over recent statements attributed to the ambassador, who reportedly responded to Philippine government officials speaking about the West Philippine Sea.
Palace Press Officer Atty. Claire Castro said it would be up to Duterte to determine what he believes is appropriate in holding discussions with the Chinese ambassador.
Castro said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and the Palace are not issuing any reaction regarding the actions of the Davao City mayor.
She added that Marcos would not interfere in the mayor’s steps or decisions, provided that no laws are violated.
The Palace statement comes as the West Philippine Sea remains a sensitive national issue, with ongoing tensions involving China’s activities in the contested waters.
The Duterte family has been widely known for having close ties with China, particularly during the administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Under the Duterte administration, several infrastructure projects were built with the involvement of Chinese investors and support from the Chinese government.
No further details were provided by Malacañang regarding the content of the meeting between Mayor Duterte and Ambassador Jing Quan.
The Palace reiterated that local officials are expected to ensure their engagements remain within legal bounds, even as national issues involving foreign relations continue to draw public attention.
The meeting in Davao City has come under scrutiny because of the broader context of Philippine-China relations and the continuing disputes in the West Philippine Sea.
