Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr., the current Defense Secretary, stated that supporting a pro-China stance in the upcoming 2028 elections would be impractical. Teodoro's comments come in the wake of a controversial video released by China Daily, which depicted Filipinos in a derogatory manner.
Political Context and Voter Sentiment
I don’t think anybody can tout a pro-China line and seek the mandate of the people when its state-owned media depicted Filipinos as monkeys.
Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr., Defense Secretary
- Recent Pulse Asia survey shows leading candidates include Vice President Sara Duterte, Senator Christopher 'Bong' Go, and Senator Robin Padilla.
- Duterte's father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, had shifted Philippine foreign policy towards China.
Teodoro emphasized the growing anti-China sentiment among Filipinos, especially following China's portrayal of Filipinos in a recent state media release. He expressed doubts about the viability of any candidate promoting a pro-China position.
In light of the upcoming elections, Teodoro urged the acceleration of the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept, highlighting the importance of strengthening alliances based on international law.
Although Teodoro is not currently declaring his candidacy for 2028, he acknowledged the complexities of his role as Defense Secretary, which involves managing both internal and external security challenges.