As of September 29, 2023, the Philippines has surpassed four million tourist arrivals for the year, inching close to the annual target of 4.8 million, as reported by the Department of Tourism. The figures, almost double the arrivals recorded during the same period in 2022, include 91.58% foreign visitors and 8.42% overseas Filipinos. Leading the…
In 2023, the South China Sea witnessed escalating tensions involving China, the Philippines, and the neighboring nations involving maritime disputes and territorial sovereignty. The Philippines and the United States, through strategic actions, diplomatic engagements, and joint military exercises, maintained regional balance, while a historic visit by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to the Philippines along…
Historical Matrix of Taiwan and the Philippines: A Geopolitical Prelude The prospects and challenges offered by geographical locations are impossible to deny or even ignore. The blessings and hardships grappled by nations and countries due to geography compel nations around the world to have different strategies and goals to be achieved and national dreams to…
Bifurcation of Philippines Defense Forces The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) serves because the collective defense entity, encompassing the Philippine Army, Philippine Air Force, and Philippine Navy, including the Philippine Marine Corps. Nestled in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, Metro Manila, the AFP upholds the motto “Protecting the People, Securing the State.” Under the command…
Introduction Established in 1989 in Australia, APEC, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, has become an important forum for countries in the region to work together on economic matters. With its headquarter in Singapore, APEC is one of the oldest and most influential groups in the Asia-Pacific. Its goal is to promote balanced, inclusive, sustainable, innovative, and…
An Overview In the geopolitical theater of the East and South China Sea, a chronicle of escalating tensions and geopolitical complexities is unfolding, shaped by historical disputes, military posturing, and the specter of a rising China’s military might. From the early clashes in 1988 to the contemporary challenges in 2023, the maritime disputes have evolved….
A Brief Vietnam’s strategic outlook in the South China Sea is deeply rooted in both historical and contemporary considerations. This key region, nestled in the Pacific Ocean, is bordered by several neighboring nations, including Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Brunei, the Philippines, China, and Taiwan. Notably, it serves as a crucial conduit for global trade,…
A Blow to China’s Belt and Road Initiative by the Philippines The Philippines’ latest decision to terminate significant Belt and Road Initiative, infrastructure projects underscores a substantial transformation in its relationship with China and this signifies a decline in China’s influence in the region. This abrupt shift marks a departure from the previous era of…
Introduction In the context of deterring a potential Chinese attack, the Philippines has emerged as a significant regional player in 2023, as it claims the 32nd spot among 145 nations in the Global Firepower Index. Strengthening its defense posture, the Philippines has forged bilateral defense agreements with key nations, solidifying its position as a formidable…
In the heart of Southeast Asia, the Philippines balances the promise of robust economic growth, driven by a youthful and educated workforce, with pressing infrastructure challenges. With an annual expansion rate exceeding 7%, the nation beckons foreign investors to participate in its digital economy, electronics manufacturing, and renewable energy sectors. Yet, an infrastructure deficit of…
