Chinese flags wave with Philippine flags along Roxas Boulevard in Manila on November 19, ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping's state visit in the country. Mark Demayo, ABS-CBN News/file 

The Chinese embassy in Manila on Thursday denied the alleged presence of Chinese “sleeper cells” in the Philippines. 

In a statement, the embassy said it opposes “sinophobic sentiments” by way of accusations that are “malicious” and “groundless.” The embassy also claimed that someone is behind the allegations. 

“China-Philippines friendship has always been the mainstream of our bilateral relations and the aspiration of the two peoples. However, there seems to be an “invisible hand” here disseminating disinformation about China, hyping up maritime disputes between the two countries, amplifying our maritime differences, creating tension, and even fearmongering about war. It aims at nothing but poisoning the atmosphere of China-Philippines relations and disrupting their development. We believe that the Filipino people have discerning eyes and can see through these shenanigans, and shall not be deceived by false narratives.” 

The embassy said China has never invaded the Philippines and called out other nations for allegedly interfering and stirring division. 

“China always adheres to the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries. The so-called 'sleeper cells' of China in the Philippines is nothing but fabrication. Instead, we see habitual meddling in other nations’ internal affairs, fostering domestic division and confrontation, and instigating 'color revolutions' by some country,” the embassy said. 

The embassy urged the Philippines to engage in dialogues to manage differences. 

“We urge relevant parties in the Philippines to keep up with the trend of the times and listen to the people of both countries, stop spinning false narratives and arousing anti-China sentiments. It is hoped that the Philippine side, taking into account the broader context of China-Philippines relations and regional peace and stability, will return to the right track of dialogue and consultation at the earliest opportunity, meet China half way, manage differences through concrete actions, and promote the stable development of bilateral relations.”

The Chinese embassy issued the statement in response to media questions following the arrest of 4 Chinese nationals in Palawan, who were allegedly engaged in issuing fraudulently acquired Philippine government issued identification cards including passports with special resident retiree visas (SRRV). 

Senator Nancy Binay disclosed out that Chinese SRRV applicants are 35 years old, considered as a “soldier’s age” and urged tighter vetting procedures for retirement visa applications.

DETERIORATING RELATIONS

Relations between Manila and Beijing have deteriorated as Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos has taken a stronger stance against Chinese actions in the West Philippine Sea.

There have been several confrontations between Philippine and Chinese vessels near contested reefs in recent months, including collisions.

China claims territorial sovereignty over nearly all of the South China Sea and has been increasingly assertive in the region in recent years.

Marcos issued a statement on March 28 vowing the country would not be "cowed into silence, submission, or subservience" by China.

He also said the Philippines would respond to recent incidents with countermeasures that would be "proportionate, deliberate, and reasonable". - with reports from Agence France-Presse

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