The Philippines must think fast to handle South China Sea disputes

“We certainly have prepared a range of options and [we stand] ready, if so called, after consultations in accordance with the treaty, to execute those shoulder to shoulder with our ally,” he said, underscoring a growing sense of urgency in Washington over its ally’s near-clashes with China in the hotly-disputed waters.

The Philippine coastguard says that its flagship vessel sustained damage, raising fears over Manila’s ability to sustain its patrol and resupply missions across the South China Sea