The Philippines is exploring deeper cooperation with Taiwan to protect undersea cables in the Bashi Channel and counter gray zone activities. This initiative has been proposed as a practical and effective approach despite Manila's one China policy, which recognizes only Beijing.
Security Challenges in the South China Sea
The Philippines and Taiwan have repeatedly complained about China's activities designed to pressure these countries without direct confrontation. China considers Taiwan to be its territory and has competing claims with the Philippines in the South China Sea. The Philippines is particularly concerned about the security of undersea cables that carry nearly all intercontinental data flows, with 60 to 67 percent of cyber incidents occurring in this region.
The Practical Approach of the Philippines and Taiwan
Felipe F. Carino III, Deputy Chief of Mission of Manila in Washington, stated at a seminar that the security of undersea cables is vital, which is why the Philippines is exploring deeper cooperation with its friends in Taiwan. He also noted that this collaboration is essential as a practical and effective approach to protecting shared interests in the Bashi Channel.
Carino referred to the tensions in the South China Sea and their impact on the security of undersea cables, but did not name China. He also added that the Philippines and Taiwan are examining practical and effective approaches to cooperation, including knowledge sharing and capacity building. This collaboration aims to address gray zone issues in the region.
China has warned the Philippines to adhere seriously to the one China principle and has sent a similar message to Taiwan. These warnings come as Taiwan has intensified its efforts to protect undersea communications, particularly after several incidents related to cables and vessels associated with China, prioritizing this issue.
