Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro on Friday said he remains undeterred by sanctions imposed by China against him and his family, vowing to continue carrying out his duties and defending the country despite Beijing's latest move.

The sanctions were announced by China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday, which accused Teodoro of repeatedly making what it described as "irresponsible remarks" about China that allegedly harmed Beijing's legitimate interests and affected bilateral relations.

Reacting to the decision, Teodoro said the sanctions were consistent with how China treats its critics.

“Karapatan nila iyan. Ganoon talaga ang ginagawa nila sa mga nagsasabi ng katotohanan sa panlilinlang nila,“ Teodoro said in a statement issued on Independence Day.

“Ang mga kababayan nila at ibang nasasakop nila ay mas grabe ang tinatamasa,” he added.

“Itutuloy-tuloy ko lang na gagawin ang aking tungkulin at itataguyod ang ating bansa sa harap ng mga kasamaan na ginagawa ng mga ito dito at maging sa karagatan natin,“ Teodoro said.

Under the sanctions, Teodoro, his wife, and their child are prohibited from entering mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau.

The Chinese government also barred Chinese entities from engaging in transactions, cooperation, or any other activities involving Teodoro and his family.

Beijing's announcement came amid ongoing tensions between the Philippines and China over disputes in the contested West Philippine Sea (WPS).