KUALA LUMPUR - The Philippines has strongly objected to a statement by the Chinese Embassy in Manila warning that worsening diplomatic tensions could lead to millions of job losses, describing the remarks as inappropriate.

Tensions between the two countries have escalated due to repeated confrontations in the disputed South China Sea and sharp exchanges between embassy officials and Philippine leaders.

Some Philippine senators recently suggested recalling China’s ambassador, prompting the embassy to warn that serious damage to bilateral relations would cost millions of jobs.

“We take strong exception to the embassy’s tone, which appears to imply that such cooperation could be withheld as a form of leverage or retaliation.

“In the current atmosphere, this framing risks being perceived as coercive and undermines constructive bilateral dialogue,” the Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement issued last Monday.

In response, the Chinese Embassy in Manila urged the Philippine foreign ministry to play a responsible role in restraining certain individuals who have criticised Beijing.

“We firmly oppose any slander or smear against China, as well as irresponsible remarks that incite hatred,” the embassy’s spokesperson said in a statement.

The Philippines has accused China of carrying out aggressive actions within its exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea, including dangerous manoeuvres, the use of water cannons and interference with resupply missions.

China has denied the allegations and accused the Philippines of intruding into what it claims as its own territory.