China criticizes PH-US joint drills in South China Sea

On Tuesday, April 22, China criticized the Philippines and United States for starting joint military drills in the South China Sea, describing them as detrimental to regional stability and economic prospects.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun warned that these exercises, which include strategic weapons and an integrated air and missile defense simulation, put the Philippines on the opposite side of regional countries.

The ongoing Balikatan military drills, involving about 14,000 troops from both nations along with participation from Australia, Canada, and France, began on Monday and will last for three weeks.

Guo Jiakun also emphasized that China opposes using the Taiwan issue as an excuse to strengthen military presence in the region, stressing it is a core interest of China and urging relevant sides not to provoke tensions.

On Monday, April 21, Malacañang relaxed restrictions on Philippine government officials traveling to Taiwan for economic purposes while observing strict protocols.