Marcos Says Philippines Would Be Affected by Taiwan Conflict

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of the Philippines stated that his country would inevitably be affected by any conflict over Taiwan due to its geographic proximity and the large Filipino population living there. He made these remarks during a roundtable interview with Japanese media in Manila on Monday, ahead of a state visit to Japan scheduled from May 26 to 29.

Marcos said the Philippines does not want to be involved in any war over Taiwan, but its northern regions would at least feel the effects of any confrontation. He noted that nearly 200,000 Filipino nationals live and work in Taiwan. The president has expressed similar concerns in the past, stating last year that a Taiwan conflict would drag the Philippines into it.

During his upcoming visit, Marcos said security cooperation will be a key agenda item in his meetings with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. He expects to discuss the full implementation of recent agreements, including a reciprocal access agreement and an acquisition and cross-servicing agreement signed in January. Marcos also intends to seek clarity on Japan's new security posture and defense export policies.

He pointed to shared challenges, noting that...