South China Sea: Philippines set to file case over reef damages against Beijing within weeks
While analysts say such a move would have little chance of being heard in an international court, it could highlight China’s ecological irresponsibility.
Jeoffrey Maitem in asian news
Philippines, Brunei sign deal on closer maritime cooperation, with eye on Beijing in South China Sea
The Philippines has signed a maritime cooperation deal with Brunei to boost “stability of the region”, but analysts say Bandar Seri Begawan’s ties with China could limit its commitment to working with Manila on countering Beijing’s influence in the South China Sea.
Philippines urged to tap South China Sea reserves to ease energy costs despite Beijing tensions
While some analysts agreed that now was the right time to “quickly develop” the maritime region’s resources, others warned that “political considerations” must be taken into account given Manila’s territorial disputes with Beijing and the failure of prior joint energy agreements.
South China Sea: Philippines’ Batanes province in spotlight again as Taiwan war spectre looms amid drills
Officials of Batanes, a province in the Philippines’ northernmost tip facing Taiwan, say they have a game plan in place since last year to prepare for any conflict in the Taiwan Strait amid ongoing military drills by mainland China in the area.
South China Sea: Philippines warns against arrest of its fishermen under Beijing’s ‘trespassing’ law
Philippine Navy spokesman Commodore Roy Trinidad told reporters on Wednesday that China’s move – set to take effect on June 15 – was “unacceptable” and Manila had contingency plans to counter its actions.
South China Sea: new Philippine claims on alleged Duterte-Xi deal could play into Beijing’s hands, analysts say
The comments by Salvador Medialdea, Duterte’s former executive secretary, were meant to shift the blame to late leader Benigno Aquino III who could “no longer defend himself”, observers told This Week in Asia, adding that this would allow Beijing to strengthen its claims of a deal being in place.
South China Sea: Philippine fishermen warn Beijing of ‘10 times’ retaliation over its detainment order
While analysts said the Philippine government’s legal action could be successful, they warned Beijing would likely respond with countermeasures against Manila and its people.