China Bans Ex-Senator Francis Tolentino
FRANCIS TOLENTINO – The former senator has been officially banned by China from entering the mainland, Hong Kong, and Macao due to what Chinese authorities described as “egregious conduct” related to China-related issues. The announcement came just one day after Tolentino’s term in the Philippine Senate ended.
According to a statement from China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Tolentino is among a few Filipino politicians who, they claim, have made harmful and misleading remarks that undermine China’s interests and strain diplomatic relations between China and the Philippines. The ministry emphasized that the Chinese government remains firm in protecting its sovereignty, security, and development goals against what it describes as “anti-China” positions.
Tolentino responded to the sanctions by calling them a badge of honor. He said the ban affirms his dedication to defending the country’s national interests and the dignity of the Filipino people. He also stressed that no foreign power can silence him or weaken his resolve to uphold Philippine sovereignty, expressing pride in his identity and mission as a Filipino.
“This sanction is a badge of honor and a testament to my unwavering commitment to protect our national interest and our people’s dignity,” he said. “No foreign power can silence me or weaken my resolve to uphold our sovereignty. I am, and will always be, proud to be Filipino.”
Meanwhile, Francis Tolentino is a lawyer and politician who served as a senator from 2019 to 2025 and as Senate Majority Leader from 2024 to 2025. He previously chaired the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and served as mayor of Tagaytay. A legal scholar, he holds law degrees from Ateneo de Manila University, the University of Michigan, the University of London, and Columbia University.
He is best known for authoring the Philippine Maritime Zones Act, which asserted the Philippines’ claims in the South China Sea and led to China banning him from entering its territories. He also served as President Rodrigo Duterte’s political adviser.