19-10-2023 (MANILA) The Philippines has clarified its position regarding military engagements with Taiwan, stating that it currently has no such engagements and envisions no future collaborations with the democratically-governed island. General Romeo Brawner, Chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, addressed this issue in a briefing with foreign correspondents on Thursday.
The Philippines is deeply concerned about the potential for conflict in the Taiwan Strait, given the ongoing geopolitical rivalry between China and the United States. General Brawner emphasized that the military remains prepared for any unforeseen circumstances, although there have been no indications or reports of imminent attacks on Taiwan.
To address regional security concerns, the Philippine military has established a naval detachment on Mavulis, the northernmost island of the country, located just 150 kilometers (93.2 miles) from the southern tip of Taiwan. This move is aimed at safeguarding the well-being of the 150,000 Filipinos who reside and work in the area.
The Philippines adheres to the “One China Policy,” recognizing the People’s Republic of China as the legitimate government of China, and has official diplomatic relations with Beijing. However, it also maintains ties with Taiwan through the Manila Economic and Cultural Office, which serves as a de facto embassy, facilitating cultural, economic, and people-to-people exchanges between the two entities.
