The Chinese Embassy in Manila has formally dismissed allegations suggesting that Chinese-language instructors are exiting the Philippines because of a perceived unfriendly climate. Spokesman Li Lingpeng characterized these claims as unfounded and condemned what he described as malicious efforts to discredit bilateral educational cooperation. Recent reports had suggested that some teachers were returning to China, citing safety concerns linked to public criticisms from figures such as retired US Air Force Colonel Ray Powell and Philippine Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr. In response, the embassy emphasized its commitment to maintaining people-to-people exchanges and rejected the narrative that the current environment has forced staff to leave the country. The diplomatic mission maintains that these educational programs remain a vital component of the relationship between the two nations, despite the ongoing geopolitical tensions mentioned in recent public discourse.
Source : The Manila Times
Photo : The Manila Times
