MALACAñANG on Friday shrugged off a recent advisory issued by China’s Ministry of Education warning its citizens about the alleged “unstable” security situation in the Philippines.
The Palace asserted that criminality in the country has dropped substantially.
In a press briefing, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro acknowledged Beijing’s right to issue advisories for its nationals, but stressed that the Philippine government has taken significant strides in improving peace and order conditions in the country.
“It is their right to protect their citizens, but as far as (our) government is concerned, crime rates in the Philippines are going down,” Castro said, citing efforts under the direction of President Marcos and the leadership of Philippine National Police chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III.
Castro pointed out that cases of extrajudicial killings linked to the drug war have significantly declined, while crimes related to offshore gaming operations or POGOs have either been either reduced or resolved, with several Chinese nationals involved in illegal activities already deported.
She added that the country’s recent improvement in the 2025 Global Peace Index reflects the overall better security environment.
“If China views the situation differently, we will not interfere with that because it is within their rights. But from our perspective, the safety and security (conditions) in the Philippines are improving,” she said.
Asked if the Philippine government can guarantee the safety of Chinese nationals studying or working in the country, Castro responded that all individuals, regardless of nationality, will be afforded protection.
“Whether Filipino or foreigner, we will ensure the safety of everyone here,” she stressed.
