Philippine defence chief says China talks 'not possible' as anti-spy laws loom
Philippine Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jnr said in an interview this week that Manila would keep only limited military communication channels open with Beijing, ruling out broader engagement unless China changes its approach. Teodoro has been sanctioned by Beijing and barred from visiting China.
Philippine Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jnr said in an interview this week that comprehensive talks with China are "not possible" for now.
Teodoro said Manila would keep only limited military communication channels open with Beijing, ruling out broader engagement unless China changes its approach in the South China Sea. Teodoro himself has been sanctioned by Beijing, barred from visiting China, and accused of damaging bilateral ties.
The comments come as the Philippines considers new laws targeting foreign espionage activity. Teodoro said the South China Sea dispute remains the central source of tension between the two countries.
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