Marcos Jr.: Philippines Does Not Want to Be Involved in Taiwan Strait Conflict, Supports Peaceful Resolution

(Central News Agency, Manila, 18th, by reporter Lin Hsing-chien) Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reiterated today that if a conflict breaks out in the Taiwan Strait, the Philippines will inevitably be affected. He stressed that the Philippines does not want to be involved in a potential conflict and supports the peaceful resolution of disputes between the two sides of the strait. Marcos Jr. is scheduled for a state visit to Japan from the 26th to the 29th. Today, he held a press conference specifically for Japanese media at the Malacañan Palace to explain the key points of his visit. When asked about the Philippines' position in the event of a conflict in the Taiwan Strait and whether the issue would be addressed during his visit to Japan, Marcos Jr. responded that due to Taiwan's close proximity to the Philippines and the approximately 200,000 Filipinos working and living in Taiwan, the Philippines would have "no choice" but to be involved if a conflict occurs in the strait. Marcos Jr. pointed out that a glance at the map shows that at least the northern regions of the Philippines would be affected. Therefore, the Philippines hopes to avoid any hostile actions and supports a peaceful resolution of disputes. "We don't want to be involved in any conflict. The most we can do is participate in UN peacekeeping operations," he said. At the same time, Marcos Jr. reiterated that the Philippines will continue to adhere to its long-standing "One-China" policy and will not interfere in what China considers its internal affairs, but hopes all parties will resolve their differences peacefully. He stated, "All disputes should be resolved peacefully, and I believe this is the ultimate goal for everyone, including Japan, the Philippines, and all surrounding countries." Marcos Jr. also mentioned that Manila is continuing its diplomatic engagement with China, and the level of contact has been raised, with the two countries' foreign ministers agreeing to meet regularly, possibly for the first time within a month. Speaking on the recent "Xi-Biden meeting," Marcos Jr. said that there are not only military tensions but also economic confrontations between the U.S. and China, and it is crucial for the leaders of the two countries to maintain communication. He hopes the U.S. and China can cooperate while competing. When asked about the issue of U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, Marcos Jr. responded that it is still necessary to observe the developments following the "Xi-Biden meeting," but he holds a positive attitude towards continued U.S.-China engagement, believing it to be an encouraging signal for the United States, China, and other countries. On the topic of Philippine-Japanese cooperation, Marcos Jr. stated that Japan officially participated in the "Balikatan" joint military exercises in the Philippines for the first time this year. The two sides are also discussing strengthening defense equipment, radar systems, and military interoperability, making security cooperation a key focus of his visit. In addition to security issues, Marcos Jr. said that the recent situation in the Middle East has disrupted oil supplies, and he will also discuss energy cooperation and regional economic resilience with the Japanese side. (Editor: Wei Shu) 1150518