Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro reaffirmed that the Philippines does “not recognize” Taiwan as a sovereign state, standing firm on the country’s observance of the One China Policy (OCP) despite mounting pressure and questions from lawmakers.
Speaking before a Senate inquiry on Thursday, Lazaro declared that the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) remains the “guardian and steward of the One China Policy.”
“Successive administrations have reinforced the One China Policy through separate but related issuances,” Lazaro emphasized.
She clarified, however, that despite the policy, Filipinos maintain long-standing ties with the Taiwanese people.
“The Filipino people have long standing relations with the Taiwanese people, and we therefore benefit from continued engagement with them,” she said.
The One China Policy recognizes the People’s Republic of China (PRC) as the sole legitimate government of China, treating Taiwan as part of its territory.
During the hearing, Senators Imee Marcos and Erwin Tulfo pressed for clarity on the matter. Marcos admitted the issue confuses many Filipinos, while Tulfo openly suggested the need to “rethink” the country’s OCP amid China’s ongoing incursions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
Lazaro held firm, stating: “We leave it to the Chinese people to resolve Cross-Straits matters.”
She also warned of the dangers of escalating tensions in the region.
“Conflict will have an impact on geographically proximate territories.”
The Foreign Affairs chief underscored that President Marcos has not deviated from the principle of non-interference under the Joint Communique.
“The President did not deviate from our principle of non-interference in each other’s internal affairs, a principle of the Joint Communique.”
At the same time, she reiterated the government’s stance: “With our concern for Filipinos and the impact of conflict, we continue to call for restraint and dialogue.”
Currently, there are over 180,000 Filipinos living and working in Taiwan, making the issue not just a matter of foreign policy but also of national security and livelihood.