MANILA — In a move reflecting escalating friction between Manila and Beijing, China has imposed sanctions on former senator Francis Tolentino, barring him from entering the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong, and Macao for what it called “egregious conduct” on China-related issues.
The Chinese foreign ministry made the announcement public on Tuesday, citing Tolentino’s outspoken stance on maritime sovereignty and criticism of Beijing’s actions in the West Philippine Sea.
“For quite some time, driven by selfish interests, a handful of anti-China politicians in the Philippines have made malicious remarks and moves on issues related to China that are detrimental to China’s interests and China-Philippines relations,” said the ministry’s spokesperson.
“The Chinese government is firmly resolved to defend national sovereignty, security, and development interests,” the statement added.
The sanction is one of the rare instances where Beijing has openly targeted a former Philippine lawmaker, underscoring the strain in bilateral ties amid growing maritime tensions.
Tolentino, who served in the Senate from 2019 to 2025, has been a vocal proponent of Philippine sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea and an advocate for strengthening defense ties with allies in response to Chinese incursions.
In response, Tolentino welcomed the sanction, calling it a “badge of honor.”
“No foreign power can silence me or weaken my resolve to uphold our sovereignty,” he said.
Observers say the sanction could further complicate the already fragile diplomatic relationship between the two countries, especially as the Philippines pursues a more assertive stance on maritime rights under current leadership./PN
