Cables at the Center of a Manila-Taipei Security Shift

Subsea cables are easy to overlook, yet they carry nearly all data traveling between continents. Protecting them has become a major concern in the region, where 60% to 67% of cyber incidents occur, according to a Philippine diplomat. Manila and Taipei have also complained that Beijing uses pressure tactics without direct confrontation. Because of these risks, the two governments are considering closer practical ties, even though the Philippines maintains its one-China policy and recognizes Beijing rather than Taipei.

At a Washington security seminar, Felipe F. Carino III, the Philippines’ deputy chief of mission, described the proposed partnership as a practical way to protect shared interests. A key focus is the Bashi Channel, which lies between Taiwan and the Philippines. Carino connected the security of undersea cables with broader tensions in the South China Sea, although he did not directly name China. He noted that Beijing claims Taiwan as part of itself, while Chinese maritime claims overlap with those of Taiwan and the Philippines.

Possible next steps include sharing expertise, expanding training and building greater operational capacity. Carino was also asked whether cooperation might lead to joint patrols or action against vessels that interrupt communications. He had no firm details, but said the partnership is continuing to develop. He believes some of the proposed measures may eventually move forward.

Cable interference has already caused serious trouble. Taiwan has increased efforts to secure its undersea communication links following incidents involving damaged cables and China-linked vessels. That month, the Philippine Coast Guard sent its largest vessel and an aircraft to confront a Chinese research ship off northern Batanes, close to important cable routes. Taiwan’s deputy representative in Washington, Andrea Yang, also referred to the jailing of a Chinese captain over cable damage. She said Taipei would invest more in unmanned systems for maritime surveillance. Yang further argued that the United Nations should examine new mechanisms to discourage interference with undersea cables.