Comment on "Manila's antics costly" (China Daily, May 11)

Unlike here in China where statements are only made officially by the agencies concerned and their officials, Philippine government officials resort to propaganda using the local media. Worse, Philippine President Benigno Aquino III has been continually lambasting China in his speeches on official occasions, further fueling the already tense situation. Although I am not surprised by his actions, given how he has handled tough situations in the past during his presidency, I had hoped that during these two years, he would have at least learned to face issues maturely and with some sense of statesmanship.

With a big rally reportedly being promoted by the government, I can't help but wonder what are they trying to accomplish. If all they want to do is to annoy China, I think they have been successful. But will that solve the issue? No. Why is Aquino avoiding high-level talks with China about the issue? He needs to realize that what he is doing will have a negative influence on the relationship between the Philippines and China. The way he has been dealing with China on the issue up to now is childish.

Leo Einstein, on China Daily website

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(China Daily 05/16/2012 page9)