Experts say the runway and port expansions will increase readiness amid Chinese escalations in the South China Sea.
Information that “Danny” sold to Beijing may have led to 2024 Sabina Shoal ramming incident.
Using the coast guard, not the navy, in operations at disputed Taiping Island avoids escalation, analysts said.
Beijing routinely skirts international agreements, so a COC must have enforcement mechanisms, analysts said.
Experts note that Philippines remains anchored in alliance with US, but will assert more agency over own defense.
Project announced at maritime security forum, but details scarce as plan is being finalized.
Expanded ‘Balikatan’ combat drills are a sign of deeper South China Sea defense coordination, experts say.
Strait of Hormuz closure has China and the Philippines talking, but any new oil would "hedge" the next crisis.
Land reclamation could make Antelope Reef in Paracels China’s largest outpost and the whole sea, think tank says.
