Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 313)
The Philippine government adheres to the one-China policy, recognizing the Government of the People's Republic of China as the sole legal government of China and recognizing Taiwan as an integral part of Chinese territory.
Yes, unofficial contacts such as commercial, economic, cultural, and other non-governmental relations between the Philippines and Taiwan are allowed and facilitated by private offices like the Asian Exchange Center, Inc. and the Pacific Economic and Cultural Center, provided they maintain a non-governmental image.
Philippine government officials are prohibited from visiting Taiwan and from receiving calls or visits from Taiwanese officials. Any official activity relating to Taiwan must have clearance from the Department of Foreign Affairs.
Such visits assume an official character because officials are perceived as representatives of the Philippine government. Their visits are publicized and draw public attention, which is seen as a violation of the one-China policy by the People's Republic of China.
The Department of Foreign Affairs must grant clearance for any official activities relating to Taiwan.
Executive Order No. 313 took effect immediately upon its signing on December 17, 1987.
The Joint Communique established mutual recognition between the Philippines and the People's Republic of China, recognized the latter as the sole legal government of China, and set the foundation for the one-China policy that EO No. 313 enforces.
Yes, private visits are discouraged because even such visits assume an official character and are perceived as official acts, thus violating the one-China policy and potentially damaging bilateral relations with the People's Republic of China.