Duterte urges Filipinos to stop discriminating against Chinese nationals

President Duterte has urged Filipinos to cease discriminating against Chinese nationals amidst the 2019-novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) scare, emphasizing that the virus is not anyone's fault and that China has been a kind ally.

He clarified that while a temporary entry ban for foreigners traveling from China is in effect, Chinese visitors with valid visas coming from other countries may still enter the Philippines.

The President warned that such 'Sinophobia' could negatively impact the thousands of Filipinos currently residing in China.

In line with the travel ban, the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) has prohibited Filipino seafarers arriving from China from disembarking their vessels and has canceled all visitation privileges for them.

Around 300 Chinese passengers stranded at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) have been flown back to China via commercial flights after local carriers canceled their China-bound routes.

Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar encouraged the public to avoid spreading fear and rumors, advocating for unity over discrimination during the health emergency.

The Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) also called for an end to fake news and racist remarks, highlighting the dangers of such messages.

FFCCCII President Dr. Henry Lim Bon Liong commended the Chinese government's transparency and efforts in containing the virus, and Teresita Ang-See of Kaisa Para sa Kaunlaran Inc. stressed the need for global solidarity to combat the epidemic, stating that viruses do not recognize race or boundaries.