🇹🇼🇵🇭 Taiwan Cutter Transfer Draws Backlash

Taiwan has transferred a retired 61-metre coastguard cutter to the Philippine Coast Guard through an NGO, with the handover formalised in Manila on Monday. The move triggered criticism in Taiwan over its impact on local fishermen and a separate protest from Beijing.

The vessel transfer comes as Taipei and Manila expand practical maritime cooperation despite having no formal diplomatic ties. Beijing’s Taiwan Affairs Office condemned the deal and accused Taiwan’s ruling party of overlooking maritime infringements by Japan and the Philippines while pursuing delimitation talks; in Taiwan, the transfer also raised concern because of fisheries disputes with the Philippines.

The episode adds friction to already sensitive cross-strait and regional maritime issues. It also places Taiwan-Philippines coastguard cooperation under closer political scrutiny.

#Taiwan #Philippines #China

@asianomics