China Sanctions Former Filipino Lawmaker Over South China Sea Dispute

‘This sanction is a badge of honor,’ Francis Tolentino said.

A Philippine flag flutters next to navy ships anchored at the Philippine-occupied Thitu Island, in the disputed South China Sea, on April 21, 2023. Ted Aljibe/AFP via Getty Images

The Chinese regime sanctioned a former Filipino senator on July 1 over alleged “egregious conduct” regarding China-related issues, a decision that has drawn condemnation from officials in Manila.

Francis Tolentino, who served as the Senate majority leader before losing his bid for a second term in the May midterm elections, is known for defending his country’s claims in the South China Sea. He authored two bills aimed at strengthening Manila’s maritime sovereignty and establishing sea lanes for passing foreign vessels. The Philippine Maritime Zones Act and the Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act were signed into law in November 2024.