China denies giving money to Philippine political group in wake of Trillanes' claims

In a statement that didn't name the Philippine parties involved, spokesman Ji Lingpeng said the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines has noted that certain Philippine politicians fabricated and spread a false narrative alleging that China had funneled funds to a particular political faction in the Philippines. "We strongly condemn and firmly oppose such malicious rhetoric and actions. We urge the relevant individuals in the Philippines to stop political manipulation and not to drag Philippine domestic politics into China-Philippines relations," Ji said.