MANILA, Philippines: Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel 3rd has cautioned President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. against making foreign policy statements on China and Taiwan, emphasizing that the Philippines adheres to the “One China” policy. Pimentel’s comments come in response to China’s warning to the Philippines “not to play with fire” after Marcos congratulated Dr. Lai Ching-te for his election as Taiwan’s new leader on X (formerly Twitter).
The China Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) criticized Marcos’ remarks, stating that they “gravely violate the one-China principle and the [joint] communiqué on the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the Philippines [on June 9, 1975].” MoFA Spokesman Mao Ning stressed the importance of the Philippines abiding by the “One China” principle and urged President Marcos to develop a proper understanding of the Taiwan question.
Senator Pimentel, in a text message, reiterated the significance of adhering to the “One China” policy, stating that it was a decision made by the Philippines. He emphasized the need for the country’s actions to align with its official positions, highlighting the existence of the Manila Economic Cultural Office (MECO) to handle relations with Taiwan. Pimentel also urged sensitivity towards China’s perspective, which considers Taiwan a renegade province.
When asked about how the Philippine government should respond to the insults from China, Pimentel highlighted the presence of professionals within the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) who handle bilateral relations and issues with the People’s Republic of China (PRC). He emphasized the importance of consistency in adhering to the “One China” policy and recognizing the PRC as the only China.
Pimentel acknowledged the differing beliefs between Taiwan and the PRC regarding Taiwan’s status, but stressed the need for the Philippines to be sensitive to China’s perspective as part of the “One China” policy. He also mentioned that if the Philippines wanted to address matters related to Taiwan, they could utilize the MECO.
Senator Ana Theresia Risa Hontiveros expressed her concerns about the inconsistencies between President Marcos’ statements and those of the Department of Foreign Affairs. She called for a review of the “One China” policy, highlighting that China’s actions in Philippine territories have been far more severe than a congratulatory message to Taiwan.
Hontiveros also emphasized that China has no authority to dictate what Filipinos can or cannot say. She urged the Marcos administration to align its messaging and foreign policy decisions, emphasizing the need for coherence and consistency.
In conclusion, Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel 3rd has cautioned President Marcos against making foreign policy statements on China and Taiwan, reminding him of the Philippines’ adherence to the “One China” policy. Pimentel stressed the importance of aligning actions with official positions and urged sensitivity towards China’s perspective. Senator Hontiveros called for a review of the “One China” policy in light of China’s actions in Philippine territories. It is crucial for the Marcos administration to ensure coherence and consistency in its messaging and foreign policy decisions.
Source: The Manila Times
