Philippines to build new Port on Northern Islands

The US military has decided not to be involved in the development of a port in the Philippines' remote northernmost islands near Taiwan, according to the local governor, removing a potential source of friction with China over the US presence in the region.

Governor Marilou Cayco of the Batanes islands, located less than 200km from Taiwan, stated that although she initially sought US funding for a new port in August, the US later declined to provide assistance. Consequently, she turned to the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) for help with the project, aimed at improving cargo unloading during rough seas in the monsoon season when the existing facility becomes inaccessible.

While the US embassy did not offer an immediate comment on the issue, its earlier engagement with the local authorities could have heightened tensions with China, particularly amid growing friction and Washington's efforts to strengthen defense ties with the Philippines.

The Bashi Channel, situated between the Batanes islands and Taiwan, is considered a crucial passage for vessels navigating between the western Pacific and the disputed South China Sea. It holds strategic significance, especially in the event of a potential Chinese invasion of Taiwan.

The Chinese military frequently deploys ships and aircraft through the Bashi Channel, a fact acknowledged by Taiwan's defense ministry. However, in response to the situation, the Chinese embassy in Manila emphasized that Taiwan is an internal matter for China and should not be a point of contention between China and the Philippines. The embassy's statement came amid uncertainties about the US military's involvement in the Batanes port project.