A new Philippine survey shows Taiwan climbing in importance as an economic partner, a quiet positive signal for Taiwan amid regional tension with China.

• 11% of Filipinos now name Taiwan among their top 3 economic partners, up 3 points since July, the third-biggest gain of any country on the list.
• The US and Japan remain far ahead, both gaining ground too, as the Philippines leans on them for infrastructure, energy, and semiconductor investment tied to the new Luzon Economic Corridor plan.
• China's support dropped, with analysts pointing to ongoing South China Sea friction, including Philippine accusations that Chinese coast guard ships have harassed their crews.
• Survey organizers suggested Taiwan's real standing may be understated, since Taiwan is already a top foreign investor in Philippine economic zones and employs over 190,000 Filipino workers.

Outlook: Taiwan's economic ties with the Philippines look set to keep strengthening as supply-chain and tech investment links deepen, while China's regional image stays under pressure.