Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan said the Chinese Embassy must first show sincerity before dialogue with the Senate can take place, citing difficulties in establishing trust.

In his nearly 20 years in public office across four terms as senator, this was the first time he experienced government officials and institutions being treated with disrespect by the Chinese Embassy.

Pangilinan did not appreciate the Chinese Embassy lecturing them about diplomacy. He clarified that he shares the desire of those who do not want tensions to escalate, but said this would depend on China’s response to the proposed dialogue.

Earlier, Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson requested a dialogue between the Senate and Chinese Embassy after learning the Chinese ambassador was open to talks.

Recently, the senators and Chinese Embassy have traded barbs over the disputed West Philippine Sea (WPS).

Senate Deputy Majority Leader Risa Hontiveros expressed openness to talks with the Chinese Embassy in spite of their heated word war.

“I'm always open to talks, kung honest brokers at the table yung kausap ng ating bansa. Again, I would go by what the Senate President has said on these matters,” she said.