MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday underscored the Philippines’ steadfast commitment to peace and the protection of its citizens, clarifying recent remarks that were misinterpreted by Beijing as “playing with fire.”
Speaking to reporters, the President expressed surprise at China’s characterization of his statement, explaining that his comments during a visit to India were purely a realistic acknowledgment of the Philippines’ geographic and humanitarian responsibilities should tensions escalate in the Taiwan Strait.
“We are, I think for propaganda purposes, misinterpreted,” President Marcos said. “War over Taiwan will drag the Philippines kicking and screaming into the conflict. That is what I was trying to say. It is not our wish to be involved, but our responsibility to safeguard the lives of over a hundred thousand Filipinos living and working in Taiwan is paramount.”
The Chief Executive stressed that Manila has no desire for confrontation and continues to advocate for diplomatic solutions in both the Taiwan issue and the ongoing territorial disputes in the South China Sea. He reiterated that the Philippines stands for the rule of law and the peaceful resolution of conflicts, in line with the 2016 arbitral tribunal ruling that invalidated sweeping maritime claims in the region.
President Marcos’ leadership was once again tested on Monday when the Philippine Coast Guard reported that a Chinese vessel used a water cannon against a Filipino supply boat en route to assist local fishermen near Scarborough Shoal. The Filipino vessel successfully evaded damage and continued its mission, reflecting the resilience of the nation’s maritime operations under his watch.
The President reaffirmed that the Philippines will never waver in defending its sovereignty, securing the welfare of its people, and ensuring freedom of navigation in the West Philippine Sea, while keeping all channels for dialogue open.
BY: The Times Union
