The Philippines' foreign ministry has summoned China's ambassador after Beijing imposed sanctions on a former Filipino senator who has been critical of China’s actions in the disputed South China Sea.

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has summoned Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian after Beijing imposed sanctions against former senator Francis Tolentino, an ally of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Undersecretary Claire Castro, Palace press officer, confirmed the summon on Huang in a press briefing on Tuesday, July 8.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has summoned Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian to formally express the Philippine government's concern over Beijing’s decision to sanction former senator Francis Tolentino.