Former Senator Francis Tolentino confirmed on Tuesday that he has been barred by China from entering mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macao.
In an official statement, the former lawmaker proudly welcomed the move as a testament to his unwavering stance in defending the Philippines’ sovereignty.
“I acknowledge the sanctions imposed on me by China for defending the rights, dignity, and sovereignty of the Filipino people in the West Philippine Sea,” Tolentino said.
“I have fought - and will continue to fight for what rightfully belongs,” he added.
Tolentino, who authored the Philippine Maritime Zones Act, a legislation strongly opposed by Beijing, said the sanctions imposed by China are “a badge of honor” and proof of his steadfast commitment to protect the country’s sovereignty, particularly in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
“This sanction is a badge of honor and a testament to my unwavering commitment to protect our national interest and our people's dignity,” the statement reads.
On their website, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson on Tuesday confirmed the Chinese government has officially imposed sanctions or a travel ban against him, saying it was in response to Tolentino’s “egregious conduct on China-related issues.”
The statement accused a “handful of anti-China politicians in the Philippines” of acting out of “selfish interests,” claiming their remarks and actions harm China’s interests and its diplomatic ties with the Philippines.
“For quite some time, driven by selfish interests, a handful of anti-China politicians in the Philippines have made malicious remarks and moves on issues related to China that are detrimental to China’s interests and China–Philippines relations,” the statement read.
“China decides to impose sanctions on former Philippines senator Francis Tolentino for his egregious conduct on China-related issues and prohibit him from entering the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong and Macao,” it added.
Tolentino, a vocal supporter of maritime rights, stood with the Philippine Navy, the Philippine Coast Guard, and Filipino fishermen who rely on the WPS for their livelihood.
He was also the target of what he described as a wave of online attacks from “China’s keyboard warriors” during the 2022 campaign period.
Despite the ban, the former senator remained firm in his position, emphasizing that no external force could deter him from defending the nation’s sovereignty.
“I am, and will always be, proud to be a Filipino,” he affirmed.
