NEW YORK, USA — President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. expressed concern about the ongoing tensions in Taiwan, saying it was essential to maintain channels to settle issues peacefully.

Marcos made the remark in a speech at the Asia Society forum in New York on September 23 (New York time).

In his speech, the President urged all concerned parties to exercise restraint.

"We are certainly concerned about rising tensions in the Taiwan Strait, just north of the Philippines," he said.

"We urge all parties involved to exercise maximum restraint. Dialogue and diplomacy must prevail," he added.

According to Marcos, the Philippines adheres to the One China Policy and have consistently called for the peaceful resolution of the issues involving Taiwan.

The President was referring to the diplomatic acknowledgment of China's position that only one Chinese government exists.

Tensions over Taiwan are spiking over a visit by US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, which has further strained relations between Washington and Beijing.

Amid the tensions, President Marcos committed to upholding peace and pushing for partnerships with its neighbors.

"We will continue to work toward strengthening ASEAN, particularly its dialogue partnerships with neighbors that uphold regional peace and security," he said.