During his visit to New Delhi, Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. made a statement that has angered China. In response to a question, Marcos said that if a war breaks out between the US and China over Taiwan, the Philippines would be compelled to join the conflict, even if unwilling. He emphasized the country’s duty to protect its physical and geographical territory.

Marcos criticized China’s expansionist moves, pointing out the growing Chinese naval presence in the South China Sea and the ongoing siege of Taiwan as provocative actions. This marks a shift in the Philippines’ stance, which until recently did not recognize Taiwan as a sovereign nation, escalating tensions with China.

China’s Foreign Ministry reacted strongly, accusing the Philippines of “playing with fire” and warned Manila to be cautious. The ministry labeled Marcos' remarks as violations of international law and claimed they threaten regional peace, stability, and the fundamental interests of the people. China questioned the Philippines’ provocative statements, pointing out that neither the Philippines nor the US recognize Taiwan as a separate country, though the US supplies arms to Taiwan’s caretaker government.

The backdrop of this diplomatic dispute is a longstanding territorial contention between China and the Philippines over areas in the South China Sea, including the Scarborough Shoal. China occupied the shoal in 2012 despite an unfavorable 2016 International Court ruling against it. Tensions further escalated in 2024 when China increased its naval deployments in the disputed waters.

President Marcos’ remarks signal a tightening of alliances and increased assertiveness on the Taiwan issue by the Philippines, further heightening friction with China in an already volatile region