'Have Some Shame': Philippine Defense Chief Slams China on Stage

Watch on YouTube ↗  |  September 09, 2026 at 05:35  |  3:54  |  Bloomberg Markets
Speakers
Gilberto Teodoro Jr. — Philippine Defense Secretary

Summary

The video covers Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. publicly criticizing China after a Chinese embassy memo was handed to him during a Seoul security forum. It contrasts his sharp security stance with the Philippine finance secretary's earlier comments seeking deeper economic and trade ties with China. The report highlights continuing South China Sea tensions and the Philippines' dual approach of security friction alongside economic engagement with its top trading partner.

  • Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. accused China of disrespecting international law and basic decency after receiving a Chinese embassy memo onstage in Seoul.
  • Teodoro described China's behavior as coercion, bullying, and aggression over the South China Sea dispute.
  • The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs did not immediately respond to comment requests.
  • The report contrasts the defense secretary's tone with the Philippine finance secretary's earlier remarks in Hong Kong.
  • The finance secretary said the Philippines wants to deepen economic, trade, and investment ties with China.
  • China is the Philippines' largest trading partner, top import source, and fourth-largest export destination.
  • The video raises the question of whether the Philippines can deepen economic ties while political and maritime tensions remain.
Up Next