Metro Manila, Philippines – The One China policy remains “consistent, clear and unchanged,” the Department of Foreign Affairs said as it asserted its role as the country’s authoritative voice on foreign policy matters.
“The Department remains the authoritative voice in the conduct of the country’s foreign policy. This role is grounded in law,” the DFA said in a statement on Sunday, Sept. 20.
It reaffirmed the country’s adherence to the 1975 Joint Communiqué with China, under which Manila recognizes the government of the People’s Republic of China as the sole legal government of China.
“This policy remains consistent, clear and unchanged,” the DFA said.
The department clarified that the policy does not prevent the Philippines from maintaining economic, cultural and functional cooperation with Taiwan.
It cited President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s recent statement that the Philippines and Taiwan are close neighbors with a long history of doing business together.
The DFA invoked the 1987 Constitution, which mandates an independent foreign policy and vests executive power in the president.
The DFA maintains that it is the lead agency advising and assisting the president in directing the country’s foreign relations.
“Consistent with this mandate, the Department will continue to rely on effective diplomacy, open communication, and the peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law,” the DFA said.
The department added that it would work with other government agencies to protect the welfare of Filipinos on both sides of the Taiwan Strait.
The DFA did not identify any official or agency whose remarks prompted it to emphasize its authority over foreign policy.
