Philippines Reaffirms Adherence to ‘One China’ Policy Amidst Diplomatic Stir with Taiwan

MANILA: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. of the Philippines has reiterated the nation’s commitment to the ‘One China’ policy, clarifying that the Philippines does not support Taiwan’s independence. This statement comes amidst a diplomatic stir following Marcos’ congratulatory message to Taiwan’s President-elect Lai Ching-te.

According to Philippines News Agency, President Marcos expressed his surprise at China’s reaction to his congratulatory message. He emphasized the Philippines’ longstanding adherence to the ‘One China’ policy, stating, “We are not endorsing Taiwanese independence. Taiwan is a province of China but the manner in which they will be brought together again is an internal matter.” This policy recognizes the People’s Republic of China as the sole legitimate Chinese government, a stance that the Philippines has maintained consistently.

President Marcos clarified that his congratulatory message to Lai was a matter of common courtesy, a reciprocal gesture to the congratulations he received upon his presidency. He underscored that this action should not be misinterpreted as a deviation from the ‘One China’ policy. Lai Ching-te, affiliated with the Democratic Progressive Party and serving as vice president under Tsai Ing-wen, has been a significant political figure in Taiwan.

The diplomatic implications of President Marcos’ message were highlighted by Beijing’s response. Mao Ning, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China, described Marcos’ remarks as “a serious breach of the political commitments made by the Philippines to the Chinese side, and a gross interference in China’s internal affairs.” This statement underlines the delicate nature of diplomatic relations in the context of the ‘One China’ policy, a key principle in China’s foreign relations.

President Marcos’ reiteration of the Philippines’ stance on the ‘One China’ policy is a significant move in maintaining diplomatic balance in the region, highlighting the complex interplay of international relations in East Asia.