Taiwan is set to establish a new office in Cebu, southern Philippines, according to foreign media reports. Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of China (Taiwan), Joseph Wu, confirmed that the office in Cebu is “in progress” with the hope of promoting the creation of the Taiwan-Philippines Economic Corridor and connecting it with the US-Japan-Philippines Luzon Economic Corridor.
Reportedly, Taiwan will set up its second quasi-diplomatic representative office in Cebu in the face of security challenges from the Chinese Communist Party. This move aims to strengthen cooperation and investment between the two sides. Currently, Taiwan has the “Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines” based in Manila.
Cebu, a popular island destination for Taiwanese tourists and students, is facing pressures from China. Despite this, the Republic of China continues to expand its informal diplomatic ties with the Philippines.
Minister Joseph Wu, in an interview with “POP News,” confirmed the establishment of the office in Cebu, stating that it is “indeed in progress.” By adding another office, Taiwan aims to boost the development of the Taiwan-Philippines Economic Corridor and align it with the US-Japan-Philippines Luzon Economic Corridor.
Regarding the current office in Manila, Minister Wu noted that it serves the northern region and with many tourists, Taiwanese businessmen, and expatriates in the southern part, the additional office is necessary. Since taking office as Foreign Minister, progress has been made in Taiwan-Philippines relations, including visa exemptions, signing of double taxation avoidance agreements, and the initiative to establish the economic corridor involving people, goods, and capital flows.
Minister Wu highlighted the common challenges faced by the Philippines and Taiwan due to threats from China. Both countries are in the same alliance with the United States and have signed security agreements. Being neighbors, Taiwan and the Philippines have intertwined relations, with many Filipino migrant workers in Taiwan. Moreover, the Taiwanese and Filipino presidents have emphasized mutual involvement in times of need, reflecting their close geographical proximity.
Emphasizing the interconnectedness between Taiwan and the Philippines within the first island chain, Minister Wu stressed the friendly economic ties with the US. Both countries have integrated resilient supply chains, extending cooperation to Japan within the scope of the first island chain. Collaboration between Taiwan and the Philippines includes areas such as drones, maritime patrols, and other forms of partnership.