President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has reaffirmed the Philippines’ adherence to the One-China Policy and reiterated that the country will not interfere in the ongoing tensions between Beijing and Taiwan, saying the country does not want to be involved in any conflict and supports the peaceful resolution of disputes.
In an interview with Japanese media in Malacañang ahead of his state visit to Japan, Marcos said the Philippines has consistently recognized the One-China policy and considers the situation involving Taiwan a domestic matter for China.
“I have to make it very clear. The Philippines has, from the very start, always held a One-China policy... and we will continue to do that,” Marcos said.
He added that Manila does not interfere in what it views as an “internal matter“ between China and Taiwan, which Beijing considers a breakaway province.
“And when it comes to Taiwan, as far as the Philippines is concerned we will not interfere with something that is an internal matter,“ he said.
“However, what we counsel everyone for is that any conflict should be resolved peacefully. And again, it all revolves in peace. And that is, I think, what everyone's ultimate goal is in Japan, the Philippines, and all the countries around the region,“ the President added.
However, the President emphasized the importance of regional cooperation in the Indo-Pacific to prevent conflict and maintain peace and stability. He also underscored the need for peaceful resolution of disputes amid rising geopolitical tensions.
Marcos noted the Philippines’ geographic proximity to Taiwan and its potential exposure to any escalation, stressing that stability in the region directly affects the country.
“We certainly do not want to be part of any conflict,” he said, adding that even northern areas of the Philippines could feel the effects of regional instability.
He also pointed out that around 200,000 Filipinos live and work in Taiwan, making peace and stability in the area a significant concern for the Philippine government.
“In the Philippines, we do not have a choice because Taiwan is so close to the Philippines, and we have almost 200,000 Filipino nationals living and working in Taiwan,” he added.
Despite regional tensions, Marcos said diplomatic engagement with China continues, including regular communication between the foreign ministers of both countries to maintain dialogue and manage issues.
The President reaffirmed that the Philippines supports peaceful resolution of disputes and will continue to pursue constructive engagement with regional partners in the Indo-Pacific.
