The South China Sea (SCS) has long been a focal point of international geopolitical tension. A region that holds vast economic and strategic importance, it has seen competing claims from various nations. At the heart of this dispute lies China’s expansive territorial claims, which have been a source of friction with its neighbors, including Vietnam…
In the heart of Northern Mindanao, where strategic interests and regional security converge, lies a key installation often overshadowed by its more famous counterparts—Lumbia Air Base. This seemingly unremarkable airstrip has quietly evolved from its modest beginnings into a crucial hub for military operations in Mindanao. As tensions and conflicts shape the landscape of the…
Malaysia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has launched an internal probe into the leak of a classified diplomatic note sent by China concerning oil exploration activities in the South China Sea. The move follows an article published by the Philippine Daily Inquirer on August 29, which detailed the contents of the confidential communication. The Malaysian government…
The monsoon, derived from the Arabic word mausim, meaning “season,” is a critical climatic phenomenon characterized by dramatic weather changes, including distinct wet and dry seasons. This seasonal wind pattern is defined by a reversal in wind direction, which transports moisture-laden air from the ocean onto land, significantly influencing regional climates. In South and East…
From the Soviet Union’s vast geography repelling German forces during World War II to Israel’s control of the Golan Heights providing a defensive advantage, nations have relied on strategic depth to protect their territories throughout history. In the Philippines, Benito Ebuen Air Base on Mactan Island serves a similar purpose, offering the nation a crucial…
Before ASEAN’s formation, Southeast Asia saw the establishment of the Southeast Asia Treaty Organization (SEATO) in 1954, a Western initiative aimed at containing communism that included the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and regional members like Thailand and the Philippines. However, SEATO’s internal divisions led to its dissolution in 1977. The earlier Malayan Emergency…
As the Philippines confronts an increasingly uncertain world, its armed forces are undergoing a transformative overhaul to meet evolving security challenges. With breathtaking landscapes and a rich cultural heritage, the nation is strategically positioned in Southeast Asia, making its military upgrades crucial. Significant modernization and training efforts are in progress across all branches: the Army…
The South China Sea, a crucial maritime region, is once again at the center of international attention as tensions between the Philippines and China escalate. On August 22, 2024, the Philippines accused China of deploying flares from Subi Reef, a China-occupied feature, while a Manila aircraft was conducting routine patrols. This incident, coupled with the…
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…
