Philippines to Enhance Economic Cooperation with Taiwan; 'One-China' Policy Unchanged

The Philippines’ Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has reaffirmed that its adherence to the “one-China” policy remains unchanged, while also stating that this does not preclude the country from pursuing economic, cultural, and functional cooperation with Taiwan. The statement comes after Taiwan announced its preparation to open a representative’s office in Cebu, aiming to establish a “Taiwan-Philippines economic corridor.” This initiative is expected to link with the “Luzon Economic Corridor,” a project launched by the Philippines in collaboration with the United States and Japan. The DFA reiterated its commitment to the 1975 Joint Communiqué between the Philippines and China, which recognizes the Chinese government as the sole legal government of China. “This policy remains consistent, clear, and unchanged,” the DFA stated, adding that it does not prevent the Philippines from engaging in economic, cultural, and functional cooperation with Taiwan. President Marcos has also previously noted that the Philippines and Taiwan are close neighbors with a long history of doing business together. Meanwhile, Rep. Leila de Lima has once again voiced concerns over the reported presence of vessels, allegedly Chinese-marked and engaged in large-scale dredging operations off Zambales. She pointed out discrepancies in explanations provided by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) regarding the legal basis of these foreign vessels’ operations within the country. A PPA list dated September 2025 indicates that at least 67 vessels conducted dredging activities in Botolan and San Felipe, Zambales, between 2020 and 2025, with most bearing Chinese names. De Lima questioned the questionable identities of many of these ships and why they were allowed to operate. While a DENR regional director initially told lawmakers that no Chinese firm was involved, the DENR later acknowledged that Chinese vessels were being used but explained they were merely rented. De Lima called for clarity on whether these were indeed Chinese vessels or simply rented ones, and who is ultimately responsible for the dredging activities. Complaints have also emerged from coastal communities in San Felipe, where residents report that the sea has encroached upon houses previously unaffected, displacing families and damaging livelihoods, particularly those of fishermen. De Lima also sought an update on a previous House Resolution she filed, directing an investigation into these reported activities and the involvement of foreign contractors, including China Harbour Engineering Co. Ltd. Source: Philstar Nation