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Philippines and Taiwan explore cooperation to protect undersea cables
The Philippines is exploring enhanced cooperation with Taiwan to protect critical undersea communication cables and counter maritime “gray-zone” activities in the Bashi Channel. Felipe F. Carino III, Manila’s deputy chief of mission in Washington, stated that while the Philippines maintains its one-China policy, the two sides are considering practical collaboration through knowledge-sharing and capacity building to safeguard regional interests.
Undersea cables are vital for intercontinental data flows, and officials noted that a significant majority of cyber incidents in the region occur near these assets. The discussions aim to address tactics used by non-military vessels to disrupt communications without triggering direct military conflict. While specific details regarding joint patrols or accountability mechanisms for disruptive vessels have not been finalized, officials indicated that such cooperation is a constantly evolving priority.
This move comes amid heightened regional tensions in the South China Sea and the West Philippine Sea. Discussions regarding maritime security and the protection of essential supplies continue as regional actors seek to mitigate the impact of gray-zone tactics on national security and economic stability.
Entities
Bashi Channel · Center for a New American Security · Felipe F. Carino III · Philippines · Taiwan
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 2 SOURCES] Cooperation efforts include knowledge-sharing and capacity building. vigormedia.tw · www.marineinsight.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] 60% to 67% of cyber incidents occur in the region. www.marineinsight.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] The Philippines is considering joint patrols with Taiwan to address gray-zone issues. vigormedia.tw · www.marineinsight.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] The cooperation is being considered notwithstanding the Philippines' one-China policy. vigormedia.tw · www.marineinsight.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. warned against towing the BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal. centronewsonline.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] The focus of cooperation is the Bashi Channel area. vigormedia.tw · www.marineinsight.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] The Philippines is exploring cooperation with Taiwan to protect undersea communication cables. vigormedia.tw · www.marineinsight.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Chinese newspaper reports suggested limits on trade supplies like oil and fertilizer to the Philippines. centronewsonline.com