Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. warned that his country could be drawn into any conflict involving Taiwan due to its close location and the large number of Filipino workers living there.
He explained that despite efforts to avoid war, the Philippines may be forced to participate if tensions escalate, making it necessary to prepare for such a scenario.
China’s Foreign Ministry responded strongly, stating that geographic proximity and the presence of Filipino workers in Taiwan should not be used as reasons for interfering in China’s internal affairs.
Beijing urged the Philippines to follow the One China policy and avoid actions that could threaten China’s key interests.
When pressed about China’s reaction, Marcos insisted he was merely stating the facts and denied any intention to provoke conflict.
He emphasized that the Philippines does not want war but cannot ignore the possibility of being involved.
Meanwhile, tensions in the South China Sea flared again after a collision involving Chinese coast guard and navy vessels during a chase of a Philippine patrol boat.
The Philippine Coast Guard reported that a Chinese coast guard ship made a risky move while pursuing a Philippine vessel, leading to a crash with a Chinese navy ship.
The incident caused significant damage to the coast guard ship, making it unfit to sail.
China confirmed that a confrontation took place but did not mention the collision specifically.
A Chinese official said their coast guard acted according to law by monitoring and trying to push Philippine vessels away from the area.
This event is part of an ongoing dispute over parts of the South China Sea, a crucial route for global trade.
China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan all claim sections of these waters.
Since President Marcos took office in 2022, the Philippines has taken a firmer stance against China’s actions in the area.
His administration has strengthened military ties with the United States and increased security cooperation with countries like Japan, Australia, India, and some European Union members.