Philippine President Marcos Denies China's Claims Over Taiwan Comments Amid South China Sea Tensions

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. clarified and defended his comments that the Philippines would be inevitably drawn into any conflict between China and Taiwan due to geographical proximity and the large number of Filipinos living in Taiwan. He emphasized that he was merely stating facts and did not intend to provoke conflict, expressing hope that war would be avoided but stressing the necessity to prepare for evacuation and protection of overseas Filipino workers if hostilities arise. Marcos rejected China's accusation that he was "playing with fire," calling the characterization a misinterpretation used for propaganda, and reaffirmed the Philippines' commitment to the one-China policy while maintaining economic ties with Taiwan. The President also asserted that the Philippines would stand firm in defending its territorial claims in the West Philippine Sea despite ongoing tensions with China, highlighting recent incidents involving Chinese vessels. His remarks have triggered a formal protest from Beijing, reflecting escalating geopolitical tensions in the region. Throughout, Marcos underscored the Philippines' desire to avoid war but acknowledged the reality of being drawn into regional conflicts.