PH in Discussion to Use US Air Assets in Evacuating OFWs in Taiwan

The Philippines is reportedly discussing with the United States the use of American assets to evacuate Filipinos in Taiwan, should any conflict arise in the region.

This comes as the country has expressed concerns over the safety of around 150,000 Filipinos currently working in Taiwan, and is expected to utilize all ways possible to ensure the safety of Filipinos in the event of any escalation of tensions.

Defense Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. confirmed that the matter was raised during the recent US-Philippines 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue, where he stated that the welfare of Filipino workers in Taiwan was the country’s main priority. While no formal agreement has been reached, both countries have existing deals in place, including the Mutual Defense Treaty and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), which could facilitate the operation.

Galvez also emphasized the importance of strategic planning, noting that the country had already considered the potential for conflict when selecting locations for the EDCA. He further indicated that the US could potentially help in evacuating other foreign nationals from the region, demonstrating the significance of the country’s existing alliance with the US.

This latest development comes after China criticized the Philippines’ cooperation with the US in military operations. The Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines, Huang Xilian, advised the country to oppose “Taiwan independence” instead of expanding military cooperation with the US, arguing that it could only aggravate the situation. (GFB)