China's recent travel advisory on the alleged "worsening" public security in the Philippines "mischaracterizes" the situation in the country, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Monday.

In an X (Twitter) post showing the travel advisory, the Chinese Embassy in Manila claimed that the "public security in the Philippines has been worsening, with increasing crimes targeting Chinese nationals."

"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Chinese Embassy and Consulates in the Philippines remind fellow Chinese nationals there to closely monitor local security, exercise increased caution, strengthen self-protection measures, avoid high-risk areas, and ensure personal and property safety, while also advising those intending to visit the country to conduct careful risk assessments before planning trips," it stated.

In a statement, the DFA noted that the "relevant travel advisories issued by China mischaracterizes the situation in the Philippines".

"Instances of crimes reported or known to law enforcement authorities, including those perpetrated by Chinese nationals against their compatriots, are being vigorously addressed by relevant law enforcement authorities. The Philippine Government has been engaging with relevant stakeholders on these cases," it stated.

"The Philippines remains committed to constructively addressing matters of mutual concern with China. The Department of Foreign Affairs recalls the recently concluded 9th Philippines-China Joint Consular Consultation Meeting, where both sides discussed concerns and measures, and expressed readiness to deepen law enforcement cooperation," the agency added.

In a news briefing, Philippine National Police (PNP) public information office chief Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuano noted that the national crime rates decreased to 4,450 or 16.5 percent from 26,969 in January to August 2024 to 22,519 in the same period this year.

Tuano said following the travel advisory issued by the Chinese Embassy, PNP acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. ordered the director for intelligence to visit and coordinate with the Embassy of China in Manila about their concerns. Robina Asido/DMS