Taiwan looks set to expand its unofficial diplomatic presence in the Philippines, a quiet win for both sides as they face pressure from China.

• Taiwan is reportedly close to a deal with Manila to open a second representative office, in the southern city of Cebu.
• Taiwan's foreign ministry would not confirm it, but said it is open to anything that deepens cooperation abroad.
• The move comes as Taipei and Manila both deal with security challenges from China.
• A Cebu office would also serve Taiwanese businesses and travelers in the southern Philippines, where Taiwanese investment has been growing.
• Taiwan currently has just one office in the Philippines, in Manila.

Outlook: If the plan goes ahead, expect Beijing to push back hard, since it treats any upgrade in Taiwan-Philippines ties as a challenge to its claims.