DFA says Philippines still committed to One China Policy

Flags of the Philippines (left) and China (right). PHOTO FROM REUTERS/Damir Sagolj/Files

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said the Philippines remains committed to the One China Policy as it explained President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s congratulatory message to Taiwan’s new president.

According to the DFA, Marcos congratulated Lai Ching-te for winning Taiwan’s presidential elections as “his way of thanking them for hosting our OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers).” Marcos also said he looked forward to cooperation with Taiwan’s new administration.

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China has been claiming that Taiwan is part of its sovereignty. Taiwan has been insisting it is not and that it is a country that has democratic processes.

“The message of President Marcos congratulating the new president was his way of thanking them for hosting our OFWs and holding a successful democratic process. Nevertheless, the Philippines reaffirms its One China Policy,” the DFA said, noting that the Philippines and Taiwan have mutual interests, including the welfare of almost 200,000 OFWs on the island.

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Tensions between China and the Philippines intensified following Beijing’s continuous encroachment into Manila’s waters.

Marcos, however, began 2023 with a visit to China, hoping to deescalate the pressure although confrontations between Philippine and Chinese vessels in the West Philippine Sea happened again throughout the year.