Philippines security

Desalination machines and communications upgrades are slated for the nine features that Manila occupies in the contested waterway.

Both sides have committed to renewed talks, but the road to a genuine peace will likely be a long one.

Despite favorable comparisons to its predecessor, the Marcos administration's security policy can only be measured against its own benchmark going forward.

Manila is embracing its alliance with the United States and building closer ties to Japan and Australia to become a strong, equal partner that can uphold a Free and Open Indo-Pacific.

The aims of last month's ASEAN naval exercise dovetail well with Manila's determination to play a more proactive regional security role.

The Philippine navy chief said that the country plans to procure 15 more Shaldag Mark V gunboats, in addition to the nine it has already ordered.

Kamala Harris is the highest-ranking Biden administration official to visit the country, marking a revival of ties after the tensions of the Duterte years.

In a more constrained and turbulent region, Manila has little choice but to lean into its status as a rising middle power.

Enrique Manalo described the 2016 award as the precondition of "stability, peace, and progress" in the disputed waterway.

The incoming president will enter office at a crucial and perilous time in global geopolitics.

Domestic and international pressures may compel Marcos Jr. to continue the planned upgrades to the country’s armed forces.