China accuses Philippines of ‘enjoying with fireplace’ on Taiwan

China accused the Philippines on Friday (August 8, 2025) of “enjoying with fireplace” after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. mentioned the Southeast Asian nation could be drawn into any battle between China and the United States over Taiwan.

It was responding to remarks by Mr. Marcos throughout a state go to to India that the Philippines’ closeness to Taiwan and the massive Filipino group there would make involvement vital in such a battle.

“’Geographical proximity’ and ‘giant abroad populations’ aren’t excuses for a rustic to intervene within the inside affairs of others,” China’s overseas ministry mentioned in an announcement. “We urge the Philippines to earnestly adhere to the one-China precept … and chorus from enjoying with fireplace on points regarding China’s core pursuits,” it mentioned.

Mr. Marcos’ remarks got here amid heightened pressure between Beijing and Manila over territorial disputes within the busy waterway of the South China Sea.

Both international locations have traded accusations of aggressive manoeuvres and sovereignty violations there, prompting the United States to reaffirm its dedication to defend the Philippines.

Beijing views democratically ruled Taiwan as its territory, a declare Taipei rejects. The Philippine embassy in Beijing didn’t instantly reply to a request for remark.

On Wednesday (August 6, 2025), Mr. Marcos instructed Indian media outlet Firstpost, “If there’s an all-out struggle, then we will probably be drawn into it.” “There are many, many Filipino nationals in Taiwan, and that may be instantly a humanitarian downside,” he added. “We must go in there, discover a approach to go in there, and discover a approach to deliver our individuals house.”

China mentioned such arguments “not solely violate worldwide regulation and the ASEAN constitution but additionally undermine regional peace and stability and the elemental pursuits of (the Philippines’) personal individuals.”