Marcos to summon Chinese envoy over conflict remarks

MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will summon Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan to address remarks the envoy made regarding the Philippines' defense posture, according to statements from Malacañan Palace on Monday.

The ambassador's comments, which suggested the Philippines could face significant difficulties in a conflict with China, drew swift rebuke from Philippine officials. The planned meeting reflects growing tensions over recent statements by Beijing's diplomatic representative and underscores Manila's sensitivity to remarks perceived as dismissive of national security concerns.

Meanwhile, fuel prices are expected to shift at the pump next week, with gasoline prices anticipated to decline while diesel costs are projected to rise slightly. The price adjustments will mark the latest movement in volatile energy markets that have kept domestic fuel costs under pressure in recent months.

The dual developments come amid ongoing challenges facing the Marcos administration on both foreign policy and economic management fronts. Officials have signaled continued diplomatic engagement with China even as disputes over maritime territorial claims persist.