Philippine President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. said on the 14th that if a conflict were to occur across the Taiwan Strait, the Philippines has no intention of becoming a belligerent in the region and will not allow any attacks to be launched from Philippine territory; as for Taiwan, the Philippines will continue to adhere to its "One-China Policy" and maintain existing ties with Taiwan within the framework of this policy. He emphasized that what the Philippines is concerned about is safeguarding its own territorial integrity and preserving regional peace and stability—“that is all the Philippines cares about,” and allowing any country to launch attacks from Philippine soil would violate this principle. Marcos made these remarks during a luncheon meeting with foreign journalists in Manila when asked whether the Philippines would permit U.S. military forces based in or operating from Philippine territory to conduct offensive operations.
On Friday, Marcos also discussed plans to "reset" relations between the Philippines and China, aiming to ease tensions and prevent misunderstandings that could escalate into conflict. He explained that the so-called "reset" means that whenever tensions between Manila and Beijing begin to rise, both sides should return to dialogue.
Commentary: In the broader context of the U.S.-China strategic competition, Marcos has clearly recognized the reality—actively getting involved in a Taiwan Strait conflict would be tantamount to playing with fire. Hence, he has proactively sent signals to ease tensions. By publicly stating that the Philippines will not act as a combatant, will not allow other nations to use Philippine territory for military attacks, upholds the One-China Policy, and proposes establishing a dialogue mechanism to reset relations with China, he aims to steer clear of the vortex of great power confrontation. The Philippines understands clearly that opening its bases for U.S. military operations would inevitably draw it directly into war, exposing its homeland to potential devastation, at a cost it cannot afford. Of course, this stance represents a rational and self-protective diplomatic choice. However, the U.S.-Philippines alliance framework still stands—Marcos is merely setting clear boundaries in advance and seeking strategic maneuvering space. Positioned between two major powers, avoiding alignment, refraining from active involvement in conflicts, resolving disputes through diplomacy, focusing on domestic economic development, and safeguarding national security—this is the most prudent path for smaller nations to avoid war and sustain their long-term interests.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1873555453697034/
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