Manila: The security situation in the Philippines is improving, Malaca±ang reported on Friday. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro provided reassurance following a warning from China to its citizens about studying in the Philippines.

According to Philippines News Agency, China's Ministry of Education issued a study abroad alert stating that the Philippines has been 'in a state of insecurity' recently, pointing to 'many crimes against Chinese citizens.' The ministry advised Chinese students to conduct thorough safety risk assessments and enhance their preventative awareness if they choose to study in the Philippines.

In response to China's alert, Castro noted a decline in crime rates in the Philippines under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s administration. During a Palace press briefing, she emphasized, "We know that crime rates in the Philippines are decreasing. This is because of the President's directive." She added that the safety and security in the Philippines are improving from their perspective, acknowledging China's right to express its concerns.

Castro highlighted the Philippines' improved ranking in the 2025 Global Peace Index (GPI), which saw the country rise six places to 105th out of 163 countries. She assured that foreign nationals, including Chinese citizens, would receive protection while in the Philippines. She also clarified that Chinese nationals deported to China were involved in illegal Philippine offshore gaming operations.

"Anyone, even if they're not Chinese, anyone, be it Filipino or whatever nationality, all of them will be protected," Castro emphasized. She reiterated that foreign visitors to the Philippines are not being harassed, addressing China's previous claims of an 'unstable' security situation in the country.