South China Sea disputes

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

While in Manila, Blinken reiterated that the U.S. is obligated to defend the Philippines if Filipino forces, ships, or aircraft come under an armed attack anywhere in the South China Sea.

The trilateral summit, which will be held in Washington on April 11, comes at a time of increasing tension in the western Pacific.

A top U.S. diplomat hopes the Senate will ratify a maritime treaty.  

The Philippine leader said that the meeting will address closer maritime cooperation between the U.S., the Philippines, and Japan.

Over the past decade, the PCG has become a respectable force – with a little help from Manila's friends

Manila's transparency strategy needs to go beyond “name and shame” campaigns.

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 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.

Good relations with China have necessitated the downplaying of past conflicts by both countries.