The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated that Taiwan is an internal matter, and Manila’s remarks are seen as an attempt to worsen the situation, which will have consequences.

During an interview in New Delhi, Marcos stated that if the United States and China engage in a war over Taiwan, the Philippines would be compelled to join the conflict. Marcos emphasized that protecting their physical and geographical territories is a duty.

Marcos also accused China of pursuing an expansionist policy, including the encirclement of Taiwan and the continuous increase of its vessels in the South China Sea, calling these actions provocative.

The Philippines had not previously recognized Taiwan as a sovereign nation, but this stance has now shifted, escalating tensions with China. The Chinese Foreign Ministry released a statement on Friday, warning the Philippines to be cautious, as it is playing with fire.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry also accused the Philippines of going back on its word, questioning why Manila would make provocative statements about Taiwan when it does not recognize it as a separate nation.

While many nations, including the United States and the Philippines, do not recognize Taiwan as a separate country, the United States does supply weapons to Taiwan’s acting government.

China has condemned Marcos’s statement as a violation of international laws, claiming it would harm regional peace, stability, and the fundamental interests of the people.

Both China and the Philippines have overlapping claims in the South China Sea, including the Scarborough Shoal and other territories. China seized the Scarborough Shoal in 2012. In 2016, an international tribunal ruled against China’s claims regarding the shoal, but China does not accept this ruling.

The international court also states that China has seized several disputed areas in the South China Sea that it has no right to. In 2024, tensions between the Philippines and China increased when Beijing deployed its naval fleet in the South China Sea.

The partnership sends a clear message regarding China’s growing influence in the South China Sea. While not explicitly naming China, both nations have affirmed the legally binding nature of the 2016 international arbitration ruling. Concerns were raised regarding aggressive and coercive behavior, emphasizing the importance of maritime laws, freedom of navigation, and regional stability.

India and the Philippines will strengthen their cooperation in defense and security matters. Regular meetings of the Joint Defense Cooperation Committee (JDCC) and the Joint Defense Industry Committee (JDILC) will take place. This will facilitate collaboration in military training, defense technology, and activities across all three armed forces. Joint efforts will also be undertaken to enhance maritime security, hydrography, cybersecurity, counter-terrorism, and combatting maritime piracy.

Bilateral trade reached $3.3 billion in 2024-25. The aim is to further ease trade via a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA). There will be extensive collaboration in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, automobiles, electric vehicles, agriculture, startups, biotechnology, tourism, and digital technology. India and the Philippines will also work together in pharmaceutical research, skill development, and traditional medicine.

There will be increased exchanges of experts in Ayurveda, yoga, and healthcare. Opportunities for education and research will be provided to young people through ITEC and ICCR scholarships. Both nations will collaborate on research within the Science and Technology Program for 2025-28. Partnerships will include space science, peaceful nuclear energy, AI, fintech, and cyber forensics. Direct flights between Delhi and Manila will soon commence. Efforts will also focus on connecting ports, maritime traffic, and digital connectivity. Indians will be exempt from visa requirements for travel to the Philippines, and Philippine citizens will receive e-tourist visas to India free of charge. The countries will also collaborate on platforms such as the UN Security Council reform, the International Solar Alliance, the Global Biofuels Alliance, and the Global South. A shared vision will be adopted on environmental protection, disaster management, and sustainable development.