Amid ongoing China-Taiwan tensions, reports indicate that China’s military has launched drills around Taiwan, alarming the global public, including the Philippines, which speculates that these exercises could be a precursor to an actual ‘invasion’.
Along with these claims, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is closely monitoring China’s unprecedented military drills around Taiwan, emphasizing national security concerns and the safety of Filipino workers in the region.
During an interview on DZRH’s Dos Por Dos, AFP Spokesperson Col. Francel Padilla underscored the significance of these developments and the country’s preparedness in case of any escalation.
Regarding the potential risk of a Chinese invasion of Taiwan, Padilla noted that approximately 250,000 Filipino workers are currently in Taiwan, making any developments in the region a direct concern for the Philippines.
“Any development po in the region is actually not a distant concern, but they actually isa po itong direct matter of national security and humanitarian responsibility ng Philippines, and particularly po ng Sandatahang Lakas ng Pilipinas,” Padilla stated.
She emphasized that the AFP is considering all possible scenarios, including the impact on the Philippines due to the large number of Filipinos residing in Taiwan, rather than solely its geographical proximity to the island.
“Meron tayong for any eventuality we have contingency plans in place,” she added.
In response to the Chinese conducting increased activities, the spokesperson said that AFP is also enhancing the country’s defenses through modernization efforts and strengthening alliances with like-minded nations.
“Tayo rin po sir, we are enhancing a lot of our defenses in terms of our modernization efforts and our alliances with like-minded nations,” Padilla emphasized.
She noted the increasing participation of foreign countries in military exercises with the Philippines, such as the Salaknib exercises, which continue to expand in scope.
Despite growing concerns, the AFP has not issued any advisories regarding Taiwan but reassured the public that authorities are coordinating efforts to ensure the safety of Filipinos in the region.
“Wala tayong advisory sa ngayon [sa Taiwan]. Wala tayong gustong ipahayag na maaaring mag-cause ng panic para sa ating mga kababayan,” Padilla noted.
She emphasized that any necessary actions will be a collaborative effort involving the Department of Foreign Affairs and other relevant agencies.
Padilla ensured that the AFP stands ready to play its role in case of repatriation or emergency response plans become necessary.
“Ang AFP po is one of the players to respond accordingly with our assets, with our personnel,” she concluded.
As tensions in the region remain high, the AFP called on the public, especially the authorities to remain vigilant, prepared to respond to any scenario that could impact the national security and the safety of its citizens abroad.
