Country
Philippines
Philippine Court Acquits Leila de Lima of Drug Charges
By Joeal Calupitan and Patrick Quinn
The former opposition senator has been detained since 2017 on drug charges widely believed to be politically motivated. She remains in jail on an outstanding charge.
This Week in Asia: May 5, 2023
The Diplomat’s weekly video round-up of Asia news.
Biden Hosts Philippine President Marcos, Hails ‘Ironclad’ Relations
By Sebastian Strangio
The White House summit applied a seal to a year of remarkable advances in U.S.-Philippines relations.
Biden Should Press Philippines’ Marcos on Human Rights Concerns
By Elaine Pearson
President Marcos Jr. has shown little inclination to tackle persistent rights problems in the Philippines or pursue justice for past crimes.
US Warns China Against ‘Harassment’ of Philippine Vessels
By Sebastian Strangio
The statement from Washington followed another near-collision between Philippine and Chinese ships in the South China Sea.
US, Filipino Forces Show Firepower at Sea Amid China Tension
By Jim Gomez and Aaron Favila
With the growing Chinese threat in mind, President Marcos has ordered his military to shift its focus to external defense from decades-long domestic anti-insurgency.
Philippines’ President Marcos Bound for Washington Next Week
By Sebastian Strangio
The meeting punctuates a period of swift advancement in the security alliance between the Philippines and the United States.
Local Leaders Question Expanded US Military Presence in the Philippines
By Mong Palatino
Several legislators and local officials said they support the expansion of EDCA, but some of the president’s allies have raised questions about it.
US to Spend $100 Million on Upgrades to Philippine Military Facilities
By Sebastian Strangio
Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo said yesterday that six projects are slated for completion by the end of the year.
Former Philippine Foreign Secretary Del Rosario Dies, Aged 83
By Sebastian Strangio
The former top diplomat spearheaded Manila's landmark legal challenge to China's expansive claims over the South China Sea.
Why the Philippines Is Exposing China’s Aggressive Actions in the South China Sea
By Jay Tristan Tarriela
The Philippine Coast Guard has a new responsibility: providing public evidence of China’s unlawful maritime activities. What’s behind the shift?
Is the US Going Too Far in Its Alliance With the Philippines?
By Sarang Shidore
The strengthening Philippines-U.S. alliance should remain focused on the South China Sea – and not overreach on Taiwan.