Why Philippines is muzzling anti-China rhetoric ahead of crucial Asean talks

AI Summary

The Philippines’ foreign affairs department has cautioned officials and agencies against public anti-China statements ahead of a key ASEAN summit. Analysts say the move may be intended to protect diplomatic efforts while also revealing internal differences over Manila’s China strategy.

The Philippine foreign affairs department’s rare rebuke of officials and agencies over anti-China rhetoric could signal Manila’s bid to rein in tensions ahead of the Asean summit next week – but also internal disagreements over strategy, according to analysts. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Sunday said public criticism of China could undermine diplomatic efforts. “In high-stakes diplomacy, a disciplined and coherent national voice remains essential to advancing our national...