China has formally protested to the Philippines after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the country could be drawn into a potential war between China and the U.S. over Taiwan due to its proximity and the presence of many Filipinos on the island.
Chinese officials accused Marcos of violating the one-China policy, which Manila officially upholds, and called his remarks provocative and damaging to bilateral relations.
Marcos emphasized the geographic closeness between the Philippines and Taiwan and the need to protect Filipino citizens there, estimating that around 200,000 Filipinos reside on the island.
The president also highlighted the necessity of preparing for evacuation operations should a conflict erupt.
This incident follows previous tensions, including Marcos’ social media message to Taiwan’s president-elect and eased travel restrictions, both of which drew criticism from Beijing.
Source: PhilNews24 | August 9, 2025
