The Philippines’ President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said his country would likely be involved in any conflict over Taiwan due to his country’s proximity to the island. China’s foreign ministry was asked to comment on the remarks at a press conference on May 19.

China noted that the Philippine leader had reiterated his commitment to the one-China policy and non-interference in China’s internal affairs, Guo Jiakun, spokesperson for the foreign ministry, said.

Guo stressed that “large number of Filipinos living and working” on the Taiwan island and “geopolitical proximity” should not serve as the excuse for one country to interfere in another country’s internal and sovereign affairs. We hope the Philippines could honor its commitments, match its words with actions, and abide by the one-China principle with concrete actions. 

(Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China)