U.S.-Philippine alliance

The Duterte-Marcos rivalry is a case study in how foreign policy is becoming politically polarized in non-aligned states.

Beijing views deepening Philippines-U.S. military cooperation as a direct security challenge, not only in the South China Sea but also in the Taiwan Strait.

The proposed acquisition of F-16 fighters would bolster Manila's ability to defend its own assets in disputed parts of the South China Sea.

China is the biggest factor behind the continued development of the U.S. alliance network – a trend that works independently of, and supersedes, any political dynamics in Washington.

Although some officials would have seen the test launch as beneficial, either for technical or political reasons, the incident undermines important Chinese foreign policy goals.

The challenge for the various parties is to insulate the China-Philippines tussle from broader regional and global tensions.

According to a Reuters investigation, the Pentagon used social media accounts to sow doubt about China's Sinovac vaccine.

Even though Balikatan is almost a 40-year tradition, this year’s exercises are larger and more pronounced than past iterations. And China is watching.

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 Biden administration is hoping to elevate economic relations with Manila to keep step with the recent enhancement of security ties.

Heightened China-Philippines tension around Second Thomas Shoal could escalate to military skirmishes – and that’s a chance Beijing appears willing to take.

The long-expected announcement comes at a time of growing tension in contested parts of the South China Sea.