Bongbong Marcos eyeing close collaboration with Taiwan president-elect

Taiwan President-elect Lai Ching-te of Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) gestures as he attends a rally following the victory in the presidential elections, in Taipei, Taiwan January 13, 2024. (REUTERS)

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. on Monday looked forward to close collaboration with Taiwan after President-elect Lai Ching-te’s victory. 

 Lai won in the presidential elections last Saturday. 

 “We look forward to close collaboration, strengthening mutual interests, fostering peace, and ensuring prosperity for our peoples in the years ahead,” Marcos said in an X post. 

Marcos’ statement comes in the midst of tensions with China over the West Philippine Sea. 

Manila’s relations with Beijing tensed in 2023 after China’s continuous encroachment in Philippine waters. 

“On behalf of the Filipino people, I congratulate President-elect Lai Ching-te on his election as Taiwan’s next President,” said Marcos.