Philippines Eases Travel Restrictions to Taiwan Amid Tensions with China

China has warned the Philippines that any formal interactions with Taiwan would be perceived as support for Taiwanese independence and could prompt economic retaliation from Beijing, following comments by a Philippine Navy official about possible cooperation with Taiwan. In response, the Philippines' Department of Foreign Affairs emphasized that Manila maintains active and regular diplomatic communication with Beijing, including discussions on sensitive issues like Taiwan. The Philippines reiterated its commitment to the One-China policy, acknowledging Beijing as the sole government of China and denying official diplomatic ties with Taiwan, even as it recently relaxed travel restrictions for officials to the island. Despite increasing diplomatic pressure from China—such as summoning the Philippine ambassador and issuing strong warnings—the Philippines insists that its engagements with Taiwan remain unofficial and focused on maximizing investment opportunities, not formal military cooperation. Both sides have affirmed the importance of continued dialogue, but China cautions Manila against sending 'wrong signals' to pro-independence forces in Taiwan. The situation underscores ongoing tensions as the Philippines balances economic and security interests amid competing pressures from Beijing and Taipei.