Philippines, China maintain communication despite Taiwan tensions

The Philippines and China are maintaining open lines of communication despite recent tensions over Taiwan, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs.

Chinese officials summoned Philippine Ambassador Jaime FlorCruz on Tuesday after reports of Manila's 'negative moves' related to Taiwan surfaced.

Both nations regularly exchange views through diplomatic channels, with the DFA reaffirming that their exchanges are sustained and constant.

China also called for an end to any form of official interaction between the Philippines and Taiwan, emphasizing adherence to the One-China policy.

While Philippine Navy spokesperson Rear Adm. Roy Vincent Trinidad clarified earlier reports about unofficial engagements with Taiwanese counterparts as referring to international cooperation rather than joint patrols, tensions remain high due to Beijing's stance on the issue.