Taiwan to open second representative office in Cebu, Philippines

Taiwan is preparing to open a second representative office in the Philippines, located in Cebu City. Taiwan Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung confirmed the plan, noting the office will serve travelers and businesspeople in the southern and central regions of the archipelago. The move aims to support the proposed Taiwan-Philippines Economic Corridor, an initiative designed to link with the US-Japan-Philippines-backed Luzon Economic Corridor to strengthen supply chains.

China has responded to the announcement by urging the Philippines to uphold the ‘one-China principle’. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun called on Manila to refrain from actions that could damage China-Philippines relations, characterizing Taiwan’s efforts as attempts at ‘diplomatic breakthroughs’ that serve ‘Taiwan independence’.

If established, the Cebu mission will be Taiwan’s second presence in the Philippines, following its existing Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Manila. Analysts suggest the Cebu location is strategic due to its role as a maritime and logistics hub.