The Philippines has no existing military engagements with Taiwan and does not see such arrangements in the near and distant future, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. told foreign correspondents on Thursday.
Manila perceives the risk of conflict over Taiwan as a major concern amid geopolitical and influence rivalry between China and the United States.
“The military is ready for any eventuality, though it has not monitored reports on any intended attacks on Taiwan in particular,” Brawner said.
The AFP has put up a naval detachment in the country’s northernmost island of Mavulis, 150 kms. (93.2 miles) from the southern tip of Taiwan, where 150,000 Filipinos live and work as Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW’s).
The Philippines also adheres to the ‘’One China Policy,’’ and has ties with Taipei, with its Manila Economic and Cultural Office in Taiwan serving as a de facto embassy.
