Chinese exec barred from entering DFA offices

MANILA, Philippines - An official of the Chinese embassy in Manila has been barred from entering offices of the Department of Foreign Affairs for allegedly disrespecting an official of the Philippines' Asian and Pacific Affairs (ASPAC).

An official of the DFA told philstar.com that Chinese Embassy First Secretary Li Yonsheng a.k.a. Andre Li was ordered barred from entering or transacting in foreign affairs offices for verbally disrespecting ASPAC Executive Director Meynard Montealegre.

The DFA official who requested anonymity said that Li is now barred from entering 15 foreign affairs offices for conduct unbecoming of a diplomat.

Philstar.com contacted DFA spokesman Raul Hernandez, but he refused to comment.

The DFA official said they have already informed the Chinese embassy in Manila that it is no longer dealing with Li and that he was no longer welcome at the ASPAC.

The official said that the incident between Li and Montealegre stemmed from a discussion about the disputed Spratly Islands over the West Philippine Sea.

The Philippine government recently protested several incidents of alleged Chinese incursions in the disputed territory.

The DFA official said that the restriction order has been issued to key offices of the DFA.

With the directive, Li would not be able to carry out his work in coordinating several affairs of his country with the DFA.