Metro Manila, Philippines – The Department of National Defense (DND) has expressed deep concern over China’s recent military and coast guard actions around Taiwan, warning that the moves undermine regional peace and stability and further strain an already fragile geopolitical environment in the Indo-Pacific.
In a statement, Defense Secretary Gibo Teodoro said the heightened level of coercion surrounding Taiwan has implications beyond cross-Strait relations and affects the broader regional community.
“The Philippines underscores the importance of upholding international law and regional norms, including the principles of peaceful management of disputes,” Teodoro said, noting that self-restraint must be observed and international law must not be distorted.
He added that Manila continues to support “a free, open, stable, and rules-based Indo-Pacific, where differences are resolved through peaceful means without deception, coercion, or intimidation.”
China rejects PH statement
On the other hand, China swiftly rejected the Philippine position, with the Chinese Embassy in Manila saying Taiwan is an “inalienable part of China’s territory” and that the issue is purely an internal affair.
“The biggest threat to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait is ‘Taiwan independence’ forces’ separatist activities and external connivance and support for these activities,” the embassy said.
Beijing reiterated the one China principle, noting that it is the political foundation of China’s relations with 183 countries, including the Philippines.
“China firmly rejects the wrongful statement and has lodged serious protests with the Philippine side,” the embassy said, calling on Philippine officials to “stop interfering in China’s internal affairs.”
Taiwan on high alert
The exchange followed large-scale Chinese military drills near Taiwan, where Beijing fired dozens of rockets and deployed warships and aircraft as part of exercises dubbed “Justice Mission 2025.”
Taiwan President Lai Ching-te said the island is determined to defend its sovereignty amid growing pressure from Beijing.
