Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. clarified on Monday that his recent remarks regarding a potential conflict over Taiwan were “misinterpreted” by Beijing. Speaking at a press briefing, Marcos explained that his comments were intended to reflect the Philippines’ geographic and humanitarian realities—not to provoke.

During a visit to India, Marcos had stated that the Philippines would inevitably be affected if tensions between China and Taiwan escalated into war, citing the proximity of the island and the large Filipino community living there. In response, Chinese officials accused him of “playing with fire.”

Marcos expressed surprise at the characterization, saying the remarks were taken out of context for “propaganda purposes.” He emphasized that the Philippines does not seek confrontation but must prepare for contingencies, including the evacuation of over 100,000 Filipinos residing in Taiwan.

The statement comes amid rising tensions in the South China Sea and ongoing diplomatic friction between Manila and Beijing over territorial claims.