Focus
the philippines
War With China ‘Neither Imminent Nor Unavoidable,’ Defense Secretary Austin Says
Austin said the most important thing was to keep the bilateral dialogue going.
Philippine President Says Territorial Dispute With China Becoming ‘More Dire’
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. says that China is increasing its foothold in the contested South China Sea.
Japan, Philippines Agree to Negotiate Possible Reciprocal Access Amid China Threat
Japan will also provide 600 million yen ($4 million) worth of coastal surveillance radar to the Philippines amid tensions in the South China Sea.
Philippines Summons Chinese Ambassador Over Vessel Collision in Its Waters
There were no reports of injuries but the Philippines said the Chinese vessels’ actions imperiled the safety of the crew aboard the its ships.
Philippines Removes Floating Barrier Installed by China Coast Guard in Disputed Sea
Philippine Coast Guard took ‘decisive action’ upon orders of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Philippines Mulls Taking Legal Action Against China Over Coral Reef Destruction
The country is exploring legal options against China, including the possible filing of complaints before an international court.
Philippines Accuses Chinese Maritime Militia of Severely Damaging Coral Reef
A U.S. satellite imagery showed that at least 35 Chinese fishing and militia vessels continued operating within Iroquois Reef on Sept. 17.
Philippines Commissions US Ships Amid China’s ‘Illegal Activities’ in South China Sea
The Philippine Navy commissioned two Cyclone-class patrol ships donated by the United States to enhance its capacity amid China tensions.
North Korea Informs Japan of 2nd Satellite Launch, Possibly Affecting Philippines
North Korea has notified Japan of its intention to launch a satellite between Aug. 24 and Aug. 31, which could affect three “danger areas,” including the East Philippines.
Philippines Says No Promises Made With China to Remove Grounded Warship
The Philippines has denied making any “promise” with China to remove a World War II-era warship—which Manila uses as a military outpost to assert its sovereignty—from a disputed shoal in the South China Sea.
EU Ready to Cooperate With Philippines on Maritime Security: President
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen told the Philippine leader that the European Union is ready to boost cooperation with the Philippines in maritime security amid tensions with China in the disputed South China Sea.
