Taiwan urges media vigilance on PH-Japan maritime talks

Taiwan’s representative office in the Philippines has encouraged media organizations to verify Taiwan-related information and remain vigilant against possible disinformation and cognitive warfare efforts amid ongoing maritime boundary discussions between the Philippines and Japan.

In a statement posted on its Facebook page, the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) said it is closely monitoring reports related to the Philippines-Japan maritime negotiations and underscored the importance of ensuring that information disseminated to the public remains accurate and factual.

The office noted that issues involving maritime boundaries and regional security are often vulnerable to misinformation campaigns and urged Philippine media organizations to exercise caution when reporting on matters related to the negotiations.

“Members of the media are encouraged to remain vigilant against possible cognitive warfare and disinformation efforts by China in relation to these negotiations,” the statement said.

TECO also requested that journalists and news organizations seek verification directly from the office whenever future reports on the Philippines-Japan maritime negotiations involve Taiwan or reference Taiwan-related matters.

According to the office, direct coordination with media practitioners would help ensure that reporting remains accurate, balanced, and consistent with verified information.

“We would be pleased to work with members of the media to help ensure that any such reporting is accurate and consistent with the facts,” TECO said.

The statement reflects Taiwan’s commitment to transparency and constructive engagement with the Philippine media, particularly on issues affecting regional maritime affairs and security in the Indo-Pacific.