China sanctions Sen. Tolentino over 'malicious remarks'

China has sanctioned former Philippine Senator Francis Tolentino, banning him from entering mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau due to his "egregious conduct" on China-related issues.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry accused Tolentino and other "anti-China" Philippine politicians of making "malicious remarks and moves" detrimental to China's interests.

Tolentino views the sanctions as an "honor and testament to my unwavering commitment to protect our national interest and our people's dignity," particularly in the West Philippine Sea.

Malacañang, through Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro, stated that Filipinos fighting for the country's maritime rights would never be silenced.

Castro affirmed that "the Filipinos who are pro-Philippines, hindi nila ito mapapatahimik at hindi nila ito mapagbabawalan na ipagtanggol kung anuman ang karapatan natin sa ating bansa at sa ating maritime rights."

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos has not yet decided on a response to the sanctions, including whether to summon the Chinese Ambassador.