Manila: Malaca±ang on Friday urged those behind the abandoned caskets bearing anti-China messages found in parts of Metro Manila, including near the Chinese Embassy, not to resort to threats and acts that could cause public alarm. In a statement, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro echoed the Department of Foreign Affairs' position that the stunt was 'not helpful' to the country.
According to Philippines News Agency, Castro emphasized the importance of responsible expression, stating, "Sa mga gumagawa ng mga ganitong bagay, hindi po kayo pinipigilan sa inyong freedom of expression. Pero, ang mga ganitong gawain ay hindi nakakatulong sa ating bansa (To those engaging in such activities, your freedom of expression is not being curtailed. However, these actions do not help our country)." She urged those involved to work collaboratively with the government, saying, "Kung kayo ay makabayan, makipagtulungan po kayo sa ating pamahalaan para matugunan ang inyong mga issues. Huwag na po kayong maging sanhi ng pangamba, pananakot at panggugulo (If you are patriotic, cooperate with the government to address your issues. Please stop causing fear, intimidation and unrest)."
Further, Castro mentioned that the Philippine National Police is actively investigating the incidents to identify those responsible. She also called on the public to report any suspicious activities in their communities promptly.
In response to the events, the Chinese Embassy in Manila released a statement requesting that the Philippine government take all necessary measures to ensure the security of Chinese diplomatic and consular missions, institutions, and personnel within the country. The embassy reiterated its commitment to maintaining stable China-Philippines relations, emphasizing, "The noises spreading hatred or fueling confrontation will not shake our confidence in stabilizing and developing China-Philippines relations."