Manila Seeks Dialogue Following Beijing Sanctions on Defense Chief

While Lazaro acknowledged that Beijing maintains sovereign authority to issue such measures, she characterized the targeting of Teodoro as an inappropriate step in bilateral relations. The Philippine administration is now prioritizing a diplomatic strategy, urging Chinese authorities to engage in direct dialogue to resolve the underlying grievances behind the dispute. By favoring a peaceful resolution, the government aims to prevent the situation from deteriorating into a broader regional confrontation, maintaining a focus on stability despite the pressure applied by the sanctions.