Amid diplomatic tension involving the US, China and Taiwan, the Philippines has expressed its support to China's territorial claim over the self-governing island of Taiwan.
In a statement on Thursday, August 4, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said "the Philippines adheres to the One-China policy," a diplomatic acknowledgment by the US of China's position that there is only one Chinese government and that Taiwan is only a breakaway province.
The statement came following the military developments in Taiwan Strait when Chinese fighter jets crossed the median line after US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi pushed through with her visit to Taiwan, which supposedly "seriously undermine" China's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
DFA said the Philippines "is concerned with the rising tensions in the Taiwan Strait," which is located just north of the country, and urged parties concerned to practice restraint.
"Diplomacy and dialogue must prevail," DFA added.
On Wednesday, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) released a statement, where it expressed concern about the international and regional volatility in East Asia following Pelosi's visit.
According to the regional bloc, the volatility could destabilize the region.
The statement was supported by the Philippines, being part of the ASEAN, DFA spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza said.