MANILA — Philippine authorities on Friday condemned threats of violence after several caskets bearing anti-China messages were discovered in different parts of Metro Manila, saying political expression must not cross into intimidation or incitement as police investigate who was behind the coordinated display.
The Presidential Communications Office said the government rejects all forms of violence and emphasized that any grievances or political views should be expressed through lawful and peaceful means. Officials said the abandoned caskets appeared intended to attract public attention amid heightened tensions between Manila and Beijing over disputes in the South China Sea.
The Philippine National Police launched an investigation after multiple empty caskets carrying anti-Chinese Communist Party slogans and other materials were found in separate locations across the capital region early Friday. Authorities said officers were reviewing security camera footage, interviewing witnesses and examining the items for forensic evidence to determine who organized and placed them.
Police have not publicly identified any suspects or announced arrests. Officials also said they had not confirmed a motive and cautioned against speculation while the investigation remains ongoing.
Government officials stressed that while freedom of expression is protected under Philippine law, acts that could be interpreted as threats or that endanger public safety would be dealt with in accordance with the law.
The incident comes during a period of strained relations between the Philippines and China, marked by repeated confrontations in the South China Sea and increasingly sharp diplomatic exchanges.
In recent weeks, Manila has protested what it described as racist depictions of Filipinos in content published by Chinese state media, while President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s administration has continued to denounce what it calls coercive actions by Chinese vessels in disputed waters. Beijing has rejected Philippine accusations and maintains its broad territorial claims in the South China Sea.
Philippine officials have repeatedly said disputes with China should be addressed through diplomacy and international law, while reaffirming that the government will safeguard freedom of speech without tolerating unlawful acts or threats of violence. China, for its part, has consistently urged Manila to avoid actions it says complicate bilateral relations and has defended its position on the maritime disputes.
As of Friday evening, investigators had not announced whether the caskets were linked to any political organization or activist group, and authorities said the investigation would continue until those responsible were identified and any potential criminal liability determined.
