Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos warned that while the country hopes to avoid conflict, it could be “dragged kicking and screaming” into any war over Taiwan due to its proximity and ties with the island.

He stressed the need to prepare, given the large number of Filipinos working in Taiwan and the Philippines’ geographic location.

Marcos’ remarks during a recent interview angered China, which accused him of “playing with fire,” the AFP has reported.

The Philippines and China have ongoing tensions in the South China Sea, and since 2022, Marcos has strengthened ties with the U.S., a mutual defense treaty partner.

Written by B.C. Begley