Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro cautioned against reading too much into President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s surprise handshake with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in South Korea.
Speaking in Makati City during the signing of the Status of Visiting Forces Agreement between the Philippines and Canada, Teodoro stressed that the country’s defense direction remains firm and unaffected by the brief encounter.
“Our job is to pursue Philippine resilience and uphold international law. Defense engagements under President Marcos follow an established plan and guidance,” he told reporters.
The defense chief emphasized that the administration’s national security strategy continues to rest on strengthening domestic capability and deepening ties with nations that share Manila’s commitment to a rules-based international order.
“So we cannot assign any particular meaning to President Marcos’ gesture toward President Xi Jinping. It was likely a personal gesture, but our policy remains unchanged,” Teodoro said.
President Marcos walked over to Xi during a pause at the ceremonial turnover of APEC chairmanship duties, exchanging a quick handshake that appeared to catch the Chinese leader off guard. The brief moment drew public attention given ongoing tensions in the West Philippine Sea.
