Manila has long cast a longing glance at Tokyo. Japan’s post-World War II economic miracle—a phoenix rising from ashes—is a tale etched into the annals of global capitalism. Now, the Philippines, a nation of 118 million, is attempting its own ascent. But can it replicate the Japanese magic formula? The archipelago’s economy has been on…
“China-Philippines Most Recent ‘Arrangement’ Has Nothing to Address the Root Cause of Tensions in the South China Sea” The Philippine government has announced that China and the Philippines have reached an agreement to ease tensions over the disputed Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea. This agreement, negotiated by Chinese and Filipino diplomats in…
zIn a firm assertion of the Philippines’ territorial rights, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. declared that the country would not yield or waver in its stance on the West Philippine Sea. During his 3rd State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 22, 2024, Marcos emphasized the importance of maintaining the nation’s sovereignty and expressed…
The geopolitical landscape of Southeast Asia is characterized by a complex interplay of national interests, historical tensions, and the strategic maneuverings of global powers. In this scenario, the South China Sea stands out as a particularly contentious region, with overlapping territorial claims and significant economic and security implications. As regional dynamics evolve, so too do…
In an unprecedented move, the Philippines Air Force has embarked on its first overseas deployment in over six decades. This historic event sees the Philippines joining forces with U.S. and Australian fighter jets for combat practice in northern Australia amidst escalating tensions with China in the South China Sea. This strategic maneuver underscores the Philippines’…
I. Introduction The South China Sea has been a hotbed of territorial disputes for years, with several countries including China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Brunei claiming overlapping parts of the maritime region. The area is rich in natural resources and is a vital commercial waterway, making it a strategic point of contention. One such…
Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong passed close to the northern Philippines en route to military drills in the Pacific, Taiwan’s defense minister reported on Wednesday. The maneuver came as tensions between Beijing and Manila over territorial disputes in the South China Sea continue to escalate. Taiwan, vigilant about Chinese movements due to frequent military activities around…
Throughout history, naval dominance has played a crucial role in shaping the geopolitical landscape, with the British Royal Navy’s supremacy during the 19th century serving as a prime example. By controlling key sea routes and ensuring maritime security, the British Empire expanded its influence, protected its trade interests, and maintained global stability. In Southeast Asia,…
The recent submission by the Philippines to the United Nations (UN) to formally recognize the extent of its undersea continental shelf has sparked controversy. Malaysia has opposed this submission, stating that it is projected from the baselines of Sabah. This opposition was formally communicated to UN Secretary General António Guterres on June 27, through a…
In 2012, the United Nations recognized Benham Rise, located off the east coast of the Philippines, as part of the country’s extended continental shelf. This recognition was uncontested by China. Fast forward to today, the Philippines has submitted a new claim to the United Nations for an extended continental shelf (ECS) in the South China…
