China on Monday denied allegations that its government and China-based corporations funneled hundreds of millions of pesos to a company and organization linked to Vice President Sara Duterte and her husband Atty. Manases “Mans” Carpio.

In a statement posted online, Chinese Embassy spokesperson Ji Lingpeng said the embassy had noted what it described as a “false narrative” fabricated and spread by certain Philippine politicians alleging that China had funneled funds to a particular political faction in the Philippines.

The embassy also condemned what it called the malicious linking of its website as a redirect destination in connection with the allegations.

“We strongly condemn and firmly oppose such malicious rhetoric and actions,” Ji said.

The statement came days after former Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV alleged that hundreds of millions of pesos from the Chinese government and China-based corporations were funneled to CALE88, a company he identified as being linked to Duterte’s husband, lawyer Manases “Mans” Carpio, and to the Tapang at Malasakit Foundation associated with the vice president.

Speaking at a live press conference Oct. 2, Trillanes claimed that more than ₱319 million entered CALE88, while another ₱150 million went to the foundation.

The Chinese Embassy urged Philippine officials and other individuals involved to stop what it called political manipulation and not drag domestic Philippine politics into China-Philippines relations.

“Attempts to achieve personal political gains by smearing and discrediting China and harming China's interests and image are doomed to fail,” Ji said, adding that such actions would ultimately undermine the interests of the Philippines and its people.

The embassy said it would take “all necessary measures” to safeguard its legitimate interests and dignity.