Phl remains a key partner of Taiwan

KAHOSIUNG, Taiwan — A top official of the Taiwan government said the Philippines remains a key partner, strengthening stability, democracy and regional policies.

Chen Ming Chi, Taiwan’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, at the Taiwan-Philippines Smart Port Development Forum gala held at the Hotel Nikko, stated that Taiwan is banking on the Luzon Economic Corridor which was formally announced by President Marcos Jr., President Joe Biden, and Prime Minister Kishida of Japan during the historic trilateral summit at the White House in April, 2025.

“This is to strengthen the Philippines’ core infrastructure. Taiwan welcomes this initiative. Taiwan aims to align with the strategic objectives of our like-minded partners and deepen our bilateral economic ties with the Philippines,” said Chi.

During said trilateral summit the United States, the Philippines, and Japan agreed to accelerate coordinated investments in high-impact infrastructure projects, including rail, ports modernization, clean energy and semiconductor supply chains and deployments, and agribusiness to further connect and drive economic growth in each hub.

Align with strategic objectives of like-minded partners

Minister Chi said Taiwan aims to align with the strategic objectives of like-minded partners, deepening bilateral economic ties with the Philippines.

“Cooperation between Taiwan and the Philippines is of critical importance. The movement of goods and people between our two countries relies heavily on the efficiency and effectiveness of our coal. Taiwan’s cultural port has embraced automation and AI technologies in recent years, significantly enhancing operational efficiency,” he said.

The Luzon Economic Corridor will support connectivity between Subic Bay, Clark, Manila, and, Batangas in the Philippines.

Meanwhile, the Taiwan-Philippines Smart Port Development Forum focused on four key topics of sustainable tourism, maritime digital infrastructure, the development of a sustainable maritime path, and the transformation of coal into smart fuels.

“I am eager to see your cooperation flourish across this area and beyond, fostering even stronger ties between Taiwan and the Philippines. I cannot emphasize enough the importance of the Philippines to Taiwan, not only in terms of security but also economic cooperation,” he said.

GTBA backs tourism development push

For her part, Global Tourism Business Association (GTBA) president Michelle Taylan stressed that Taiwanese tourists play a vital role in the Philippines’ continuous quest to be one of Asia’s tourism powerhouses.

She pointed out that the Philippines and Taiwan share a rich cultural heritage and stunning ocean landscapes.