Introduction In 1898, the aftermath of the Spanish-American War saw the Philippines ceded to the United States, sparking a complex relationship that began with colonial rule and evolved into a strategic partnership. This historical backdrop sets the stage for understanding the multifaceted ties between the two nations, which have been shaped by geopolitical, economic, and…
The question of whether the Philippines claim Sabah isn’t just an old history lesson—it’s a gripping tale of intrigue and high-stakes politics that has unfolded over decades. Picture Sabah, a lush and resource-rich region on Borneo’s northern tip, caught in a whirlwind of historical disputes and modern ambitions. This is not just about who owns…
During the Cold War, the United States and its NATO allies significantly upgraded air bases in West Germany, such as Ramstein Air Base, to counter the Soviet Union’s military presence in Eastern Europe. These bases were modernized with enhanced runways, expanded facilities, and increased capacity to host various aircraft, enabling rapid deployment and sustained military…
By selecting four new Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) locations in the Philippines, the United States has made a bold and controversial move that has ignited debate about its broader geopolitical objectives in the Indo-Pacific region. Beneath layers of diplomatic maneuvers and strategic secrecy, this decision has raised significant questions regarding the true motivations behind…
Japan’s recent strategic maneuvering in Southeast Asia, particularly its deepening defense ties with Vietnam and the Philippines, has stirred notable unease in Beijing. These developments represent a significant shift in the regional security landscape, raising questions about the implications for China’s regional ambitions, especially in the contested waters of the South China Sea. The strengthening…
In a marked escalation of tensions in the South China Sea, the Philippines has sharply rebuked China for what it terms “dangerous and provocative” actions by the Chinese air force. This latest incident involves an encounter between aircraft from both nations over the contested Scarborough Shoal, a site that has become emblematic of the deepening…
The Philippines has commenced the construction of an airport on Pag-asa Island, a strategic development aimed at reinforcing its territorial claims in the highly contested South China Sea. This move comes amidst escalating tensions with Beijing, as Manila seeks to solidify its presence and assert sovereignty over the disputed waters. Historical Context and Current Disputes…
The post-World War II international order is unraveling as conflicts emerge across the globe. We are witnessing the rapid formation of a multipolar world, characterized by power struggles and geopolitical realignments. One of the most volatile flashpoints in this new global landscape is the South China Sea, a vital maritime corridor fraught with escalating tensions…
The Philippines and Germany have committed to finalize a defense cooperation agreement this year, reinforcing their dedication to uphold the international rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius and his Philippine counterpart, Gilberto Teodoro, made this commitment during Pistorius’s visit to Manila, the first by a German defense minister, marking the…
The navies of the Philippines and the United States conducted a joint maritime exercise in the South China Sea on Wednesday, according to a statement from the Philippine armed forces. This exercise, held within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ), is part of ongoing efforts to enhance the interoperability and operational coordination between the two…
