Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. stated that the Philippines would inevitably be affected in the event of a military conflict between China and the United States over Taiwan, due to the country’s geographic proximity and the presence of thousands of Filipino workers on the self-ruled island.

According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos highlighted in an interview with Indian media outlet Firstpost during his state visit to India that the Philippines cannot remain uninvolved if a confrontation arises over Taiwan between China and the United States, given its physical geographic location. He noted that the large city of Kaohsiung in Taiwan is just a 40-minute flight from Laoag in northern Philippines, underscoring the closeness.

While expressing hesitation over the possibility of being drawn into a regional conflict, Marcos emphasized that national sovereignty and humanitarian responsibilities would compel the Philippines to take action. He stressed the importance of defending territory and sovereignty, despite the reluctance.

Marcos also addressed concerns about the safety of Filipinos living and working in Taiwan, who would be at immediate risk if hostilities erupted. He acknowledged that the presence of many Filipino nationals in Taiwan would present a significant humanitarian issue, necessitating efforts to bring them home. However, he warned that any repatriation effort would be extremely challenging in a live combat zone.

The Philippines has an estimated 160,000 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Taiwan, many employed in electronics factories and domestic work. Historically, the Philippines has maintained a one-China policy while sustaining robust economic and people-to-people ties with Taiwan.