28th Parliamentary Intelligence-Security Forum – The Matter of Taiwan: Exploring a Long-Standing Flash Point of the Indo-Pacific

Atty. Neil Silva discussed the Philippines’ key interests in the Taiwan Strait, emphasizing national security, preventing a Taiwan takeover by a hostile power, avoiding armed conflict and escalation, and maintaining regional stability and alliances. He outlined four policy options: (1) promoting Mainland-Taiwan stability (2) deterring China from forceful reunification while preventing provocation by Taiwan and Western allies, (3) limiting conflict escalation, and (4) preparing legal and policy decisions in case of war.

Regarding third-party involvement in a Taiwan conflict, he presented four possible stances: (1) complete non-involvement, (2) neutrality with refugee assistance, (3) limited logistical support for Taiwan, or (4) full co-belligerency by providing military aid. Finally, he argued that the Philippines should revisit its One China Policy, shifting its focus from accommodating China’s stance to prioritizing Philippine and international interests.