Oct. 19 — The Philippines summoned China's ambassador after he said last week China could easily defeat the Philippines in a conflict; several serving senators then demanded the envoy's expulsion. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said at a routine briefing that improving China‑Philippines ties is in both sides' interest, that China firmly opposes malicious hype on China-related issues that damages relations, and that Manila should restrain individual politicians' irresponsible remarks.