Manila, Philippines — Amid heightened tensions in the region due to China’s aggressive posture toward Taiwan, Malacañang has clarified that the Philippines is not preparing for war but is prioritizing the safety and security of its citizens and national interests.
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin emphasized on Thursday that the country has no intention of engaging in conflict unless directly involved, responding to recent statements from Armed Forces Chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., who called on Philippine troops to brace for any eventuality in light of China’s military activities in the East China Sea.
“This is just part of the preparedness that we as a country should be put into,” Bersamin told reporters. “We’re not saying when that invasion [of Taiwan] will take place, whether it will take place at all. What’s important is we will not be caught off-guard.”
Whole-of-Nation Approach to Civilian Safety
Rather than preparing for armed conflict, Bersamin underscored that the government’s primary focus would be the protection and possible repatriation of the approximately 250,000 Filipinos currently residing in Taiwan.
In the event of a crisis, the Philippine government is prepared to mobilize both air and sea assets to carry out large-scale evacuations if necessary. “We have every asset that is needed for that — maybe large evacuations — we need the confluence of air and water assets. We have ships and airplanes if needed,” Bersamin added.
He clarified that no single government agency will lead the response, noting instead a “whole-of-government, whole-of-nation” approach to ensure swift and coordinated action.
Military Preparedness as a Contingency
General Brawner’s remarks, made earlier this week during the Northern Luzon Command’s anniversary, were aimed at reinforcing strategic readiness, not signaling imminent conflict.
“Do not be content with securing just the Northern Hemisphere up to Mavulis Island. Start planning for actions in case there is an invasion of Taiwan,” Brawner said, urging troops to anticipate all possible developments.
Bersamin reiterated that such preparations are not new and have been discussed internally as part of long-standing contingency plans. The goal, he said, is to ensure that the Philippines can respond to regional instability without compromising national peace and the welfare of its citizens.
