Philippine Defense Chief Says China’s Sanctions Won’t Deter Him

Philippines Defense Minister Gilberto Teodoro speaks during an interview at the IISS Shangri-La Dialogue security summit in Singapore, on May 30, 2026. Minh Nguyen/Reuters

Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro on June 12 pledged to continue to stand up for his country following Beijing’s sanctions against him.

China’s foreign ministry announced the decision late on June 11, accusing Teodoro of making remarks it said undermined Chinese interests and damaged relations with Manila.