Philippines South China Sea policy

Did the former president broker an informal deal with the Chinese government over the South China Sea?

The announcement of the joint South China Sea maneuvers is expected to be announced at a trilateral summit between the three nations next week.

The incident took place during the regular resupply of the Philippine outpost on Second Thomas Shoal in the Spratly Islands.

While differences remain, the two nations are experiencing an increasing strategic convergence on the South China Sea.

The reported collision came as the maritime disputes dominated discussions at a regional summit in Australia.

Allegations that Chinese vessels have used the toxic chemical in their fishing operations add to the climate of tension in the South China Sea.

The deployment follows a string of stand-offs between Chinese and Philippine vessels in the disputed seaway.

The country's awkward geographic position with China militates against it adopting a strong pro-U.S. orientation.

The agreements come at a time of intensifying tension in waters claimed by China and the Philippines.

The new "comprehensive archipelagic defense concept" will seek to secure Manila's access to resources lying within its Exclusive Economic Zone, including in the South China Sea.

The condemnation came after the Philippine Coast Guard reported another incident in the vicinity of Scarborough Shoal on January 12.

Desalination machines and communications upgrades are slated for the nine features that Manila occupies in the contested waterway.