Philippines on High Alert as Invasion Threat Looms over Taiwan

The Philippines is closely monitoring the threat of China invading Taiwan and has contingency plans in place for possible conflict in the region, according to the country's defense chief. The safety of over 100,000 Filipinos living and working in Taiwan is a priority. The Philippines, a key defense partner of the United States, has granted access to additional bases this year, some facing north towards Taiwan. The country has emphasized that it is not taking sides in the U.S.-China rivalry and hopes that bilateral engagements between the U.S. and China will help diffuse tensions in the region.