Taiwan's coastguard vessel transfer to the Philippines sparks double outcry

Taiwan's transfer of a retired 61-metre coastguard vessel to the Philippine Coast Guard through a non-governmental organisation has drawn objections from both Beijing and Taiwanese fishing interests. China criticised the transaction as security cooperation between Taipei and Manila, while fishermen questioned whether Taiwan should give away a capable patrol asset amid pressure at sea. The handover is notable because Taiwan and the Philippines do not maintain formal diplomatic relations. Public reporting did not describe it as a new military alliance, and operational use, refitting requirements and deployment plans remain matters for Philippine authorities.