The Philippines has publicly rebuked China over its recent travel ban on officials from the Kalayaan municipality, which includes its mayor and deputy. Angelica Escalona, the spokesperson for the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs, acknowledged China’s sovereign right to reject entry to foreign officials but emphasized that such actions are detrimental to promoting friendly ties between the two nations. This statement comes in light of China's declaration that 16 officials from Kalayaan, including Mayor Beltzasar Alindogan and Deputy Maurice Phillip Alexis Albayda, were prohibited from entering the country, including its special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau.

Escalona highlighted the importance of nurturing interpersonal exchanges as a vital component of any robust bilateral relationship, especially in the context of commitments made by both countries to enhance people-to-people interactions. The Philippine government's strong response underscores the deepening tensions between the two countries, particularly as the Philippines continues to assert its national sovereignty in territorial disputes linked to overlapping maritime claims in the South China Sea.

The Chinese embassy's ban on these officials might be seen as a punitive measure following the declaration of the Chinese ambassador as persona non grata. This situation reflects the complicated nature of Philippines-China relations, which encompass not only economic ties but also significant geopolitical tensions regarding territorial rights and diplomatic recognition. The ongoing developments could impact future discussions and initiatives aimed at addressing mutual concerns within the region.