Country
Philippines
Sea Change: ‘Bongbong’ Marcos and the Future of the South China Sea
By Patrick M. Cronin
Marcos is overhauling Philippine strategy, and the strategic shift is as significant as any in the region.
Philippines Successfully Resupplies Troops On Besieged Second Thomas Shoal
By Sebastian Strangio
The atoll in the South China Sea has been subject to what some observers have characterized as a Chinese blockade.
Who Promised to Remove the Grounded Philippine Ship on Second Thomas Shoal?
By Mong Palatino
Government officials, including two former presidents, have denied Beijing's claim that Manila made an agreement to remove the ship from the disputed shoal.
Is the Philippines Ready for a Taiwan Conflict?
By Nian Peng
The Philippines is becoming increasingly vocal about Taiwan, and Beijing is watching carefully.
Philippine Foreign Secretary Calls for China to Reduce Tensions in South China Sea
By Sebastian Strangio
Enrique Manalo's comments come at a time of growing tension over Second Thomas Shoal, a Philippine-occupied atoll in the Spratly Islands.
This Week in Asia: August 11, 2023
The Diplomat’s weekly video round-up of Asia news.
More Purpose, Fewer Platitudes: The Philippines’ Defense Diplomacy Under Marcos
By Justin Baquisal
Last week's water cannon incident underscores the hard limits of engagement with China – and the need for the Philippines’ to build up its military capability.
Philippine President Suspends 22 Land Reclamation Projects in Manila Bay After US Airs Concerns
By Jim Gomez
Marcos's order came after the United States expressed public concern over environmental damage from the projects and the involvement of a U.S.-blacklisted Chinese company.
Joint South China Sea Patrols Could Begin in 2023, Philippine Official Says
By Sebastian Strangio
The announcement comes at a time of increased Chinese assertiveness in disputed waters.
A New Filipino Leader for Southeast Asia’s Islamic State
By Zam Yusa
It’s not clear if Abu Turaife can garner support from IS adherents in the region and galvanize local militants or whether pro-IS groups in the Philippines are on the decline.
Philippines Summons Chinese Ambassador Over Water Cannon Incident
By Sebastian Strangio
This is the second time this year that Huang has been summoned following stand-offs in the vicinity of Second Thomas Shoal.
Philippines Blasts China For ‘Dangerous Maneuvers’ Near Disputed Shoal
By Sebastian Strangio
The Philippine Coast Guard claims that a Chinese vessel used a high-powered water cannon in order to prevent the resupply of the Philippine forces stationed on Second Thomas Shoal.