The relationship dynamics among China, Taiwan, and the Philippines are complex and historically burdened with tensions, territorial disputes, and economic entanglements. Central to this nexus is China’s stance on Taiwan as a renegade province and its pursuit of unification under the “One China” policy. Taiwan, however, stands as a beacon of self-governance with a thriving…
Introduction Amidst the tumultuous waters of the South China Sea, the Philippines stands resolute against the encroaching shadow of Chinese dominance. The stage is set with Manila vehemently rejecting any suggestion of a “temporary special arrangement” with China, dismissing it as a fanciful creation of the Chinese coastguard. National Security Council spokesperson Jonathan Malaya passionately…
Once heralded as a formidable alliance, the political partnership between Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte, has spectacularly unraveled, unleashing a wave of mutual accusations that threaten to upset Marcos’s reform agenda and inject uncertainty into the country’s political landscape. The alliance, which propelled both families to power in the 2022…
Once heralded as a formidable alliance, the political partnership between Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte, has spectacularly unraveled, unleashing a wave of mutual accusations that threaten to upset Marcos’s reform agenda and inject uncertainty into the country’s political landscape. The alliance, which propelled both families to power in the 2022…
A Brief Geopolitical tensions have long plagued the Middle East, with recent developments sparking concerns of a full-scale war. Various factors, including political unrest, economic challenges, and religious and ethnic conflicts, have contributed to increased regional tensions. The Middle East is indeed edging closer to a wider regional conflict, as noted by Julian Borger, the…
Introduction In the context of the Philippines’ historical struggle with maritime disputes and its evolving defense posture, the impending delivery of the India-Russia-made BrahMos missiles at a cost of US$375 million represents a significant milestone in the nation’s pursuit of enhanced maritime security. This acquisition, following a slight delay, underscores the Philippines’ determination to assert…
Introduction The history of the Philippines is deeply etched with the imprints of successive colonial empires. Notably, the period of American colonialism, spanning from 1898 to 1946, stands as a pivotal chapter. Following the 1898 Treaty of Paris, the Philippines transitioned from Spanish rule to American authority in the aftermath of the Spanish-American War. This…
The South China Sea, a vital crossroads for global trade with an annual value approaching trillions, emerges as a geopolitical flashpoint where economic interests intersect with territorial disputes. This strategic waterway facilitates one-third of the world’s trade and the transit of millions of barrels of oil daily. Contested by nations including China, Vietnam, Malaysia, the…
Introduction The classification of the Philippines as a rich or poor country hinges on various criteria. According to the World Bank, it falls into the lower-middle-income category, reflecting progress in economic growth but persistent challenges like poverty and inequality. Its nominal GDP of $435.67 billion (2023 est.) ranks 34th globally, and when adjusted for purchasing…
A Brief In a groundbreaking turn of events, the 2024 Taiwanese presidential election has resulted in the victory of William Lai Ching-te, securing a historic third consecutive term for the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). Lai’s compelling win, commanding 40.1% of the vote, demonstrates a substantial mandate. The electoral landscape was dominated by the overarching theme…
