MANILA, (PIA) -- Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. has issued a statement strongly denying any involvement of the DND in what he called a "devious machination" by the Chinese Embassy in Manila. The statement comes in response to insinuations that the Department of National Defense is a party to a "new model" proposed by China.

"I would like to clearly state that any insinuation that the Department of National Defense is a party to any 'new model' is a devious machination of China through their Embassy in Manila, and it is curious that it comes right after their actions were condemned in the recent SQUAD meeting in Honolulu, Hawaii," he said.

Secretary Teodoro emphasized that any suggestion of the Department's participation in this supposed "new model" is false, and part of China's manipulative tactics. He said he finds it suspicious that these insinuations emerge shortly after China faced condemnation during the recent SQUAD meeting held in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Furthermore, he clarified that he has prohibited any contact between the DND and the Chinese Embassy since Ambassador Huang Xilian's courtesy call shortly after he assumed office in July of the previous year. During that meeting, there was no discussion or briefing on any "gentleman's agreement" or "new model," contrary to the Chinese Embassy's claims.

"I reiterate that I have disallowed any contact between the DND and the Chinese Embassy since the courtesy call of Ambassador Huang Xilian, a few days after I assumed office in July of last year. During the said courtesy call, there was no discussion or briefing on any 'gentleman's agreement' or 'new model', which is contrary to the Chinese Embassy's pronouncements," he said.

Teodoro strongly urged an end to what he calls a "charade" orchestrated by China.

"This charade must stop!" he said.

He said he issued this statement to raise awareness about China's attempt to propagate falsehoods, which aim to divide the people of the Philippines and divert attention from China's unlawful presence and actions in the country's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

In light of these developments, Teodoro advised Filipino citizens, the media, and the international community to be cautious of China's tactics of manipulation, interference, and malign influence as it pursues its own interests.

The Department of National Defense's statement serves as a reminder of the ongoing tensions between the Philippines and China regarding territorial disputes in the South China Sea.

China's actions and claims in the disputed waters have been a subject of international concern, with neighboring countries expressing their opposition to China's assertive behavior.

The DND's firm denial and call for vigilance shed light on the complexities and challenges faced in navigating these ongoing disputes. (PIA-NCR)