THE Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) have launched a probe following the recovery of several abandoned caskets carrying anti-Chinese banners and photographs across various locations in Metro Manila early Friday, prompting a swift diplomatic rebuke from Beijing.
According to initial reports from the National Capital Region Police Office, responding units secured at least five wooden caskets in Manila, Caloocan, Quezon City, and Makati.
The Southern Police District (SPD) confirmed that an empty casket discovered along Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue in Makati around 3:50 AM contained photographs of unidentified individuals alongside a banner inscribed with “Chinese Communist Party (CCP) GREEDY SALOT.”
Station Explosives and Canine Units (SECU) alongside SOCO teams were dispatched to inspect and process the sites.
The Chinese Embassy in Manila condemned the incidents, describing them as “a blatant act of political provocation, personal attack, and intimidation and threat, of a most egregious nature.”
Embassy spokesperson Ji Lingpeng stated that solemn representations had been lodged with the Philippine government, urging local law enforcement to prosecute those responsible and guarantee the protection of Chinese diplomatic staff.
Ji noted that while certain groups seek to stoke hatred and incite confrontation, Beijing remains committed to stable bilateral relations.
In response, the DFA reaffirmed its commitment to international diplomatic protocols.
While upholding the constitutional right to freedom of expression, the department emphasized that such rights do not extend to threats of violence or safety risks against foreign nationals.
The DFA highlighted its obligations under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, confirming active coordination with law enforcement to establish accountability.
Meanwhile, the PNP advised the public against spreading unverified speculation on social media.
Police units are currently validating all recovered items to determine their origin, identify the perpetrators behind the coordinated drop-offs, and assess possible violations of national laws and local ordinances.
Authorities urge anyone with information regarding the incidents to contact local precinct stations or the Unified 911 hotline.