South China Sea: does new US-Philippine task force mark turning point in allies’ ties?
By Sam Beltran The United States and the Philippines have launched a new military task force designed to expand joint operational planning and coordination – a move analysts say underscores both countries’ determination to strengthen deterrence against Beijing’s growing assertiveness in the South China Sea. While the initiative formalises years of expanding defence ties, observers […]
Read MoreChina’s military says it tracked Philippine patrol in South China Sea
BEIJING: China’s military said on Saturday it monitored and tracked a joint patrol organized by the Philippines in the disputed South China Sea on October 30 and October 31. Washington and Manila have beefed up military cooperation, unveiling plans on Friday to form a new joint task force for areas including the South China Sea, […]
Read MoreFilipinos mark All Saints’ Day with bonfires, songs to honor their dead
MANILA: Millions of Filipinos thronged cemeteries across the country on Saturday to mark Undas — the All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day celebrations — and take part in traditional serenades and bonfires. The events are part of the observance for some Filipinos, as they continue ancient practices to honor their dead loved ones. For […]
Read MoreSouth China Sea: why US is eyeing Philippines’ coastguard with 3-year training plan
By Jeoffrey Maitem Manila’s long-time ally, the United States, has launched a training programme aimed at strengthening the Philippine Coast Guard’s (PCG) operational strategies and maritime law enforcement capabilities. The move, however, could deepen dependence on Washington under the guise of civilian capacity-building, according to some observers, who point to a familiar “pattern” inherent in […]
Read MoreIs accountability looming for Philippines’ Duterte? Survey shows ‘growing demand for justice’
By Sam Beltran Half of Filipinos believe that former president Rodrigo Duterte should be held accountable for the deaths related to his bloody drug war, with observers pointing out the findings of a new survey could further “lend legitimacy and support” to an international court’s investigation into the ex-leader. The results come amid the International […]
Read MorePhilippines accuses China of ramming vessel near disputed island as tensions soar
MANILA: The Philippines accused Chinese maritime forces of using water cannon and ramming a Filipino vessel near the Philippine-occupied Thitu Island, calling the actions a “clear threat” that escalates tensions in contested South China Sea waters. The Philippines Coast Guard said three Filipino vessels, including the BRP Datu Pagbuaya, were anchored near Thitu Island, locally […]
Read MoreICC rejects release bid from ex-Philippines president Duterte
THE HAGUE: Former Philippines president Rodrigo Duterte will remain in the custody of the International Criminal Court after judges Friday rejected a request from his defense team for release on medical grounds. “The Chamber finds that Mr.Duterte’s detention continues to remain necessary,” the ICC said in its ruling. ICC prosecutors have charged Duterte with three […]
Read MoreHow Alice Guo saga exposed gaps in Philippine institutional safeguards: ‘prone to abuse’
By Sam Beltran Alice Guo, the controversial former mayor linked to a raided scam hub and accused of faking her Philippine citizenship, is facing 70 new criminal complaints along with her relatives, including document fraud and violations of laws barring foreigners from owning property or running businesses. Analysts say the case highlights how foreign syndicates have […]
Read MoreFake coup and CIA plot rumours in Philippines fuelling real political turmoil
By Alan Robles A wave of fake news and conspiracy theories has taken aim at the Philippine military, with viral claims of coup plots, foreign interference and high-level defections spreading rapidly on social media. Observers warn the campaign is fuelling political instability by exploiting public outrage over recent major corruption scandals. Several trace the effort […]
Read MorePhilippines steps up future warfare defence with 3D-printed drones, stronger alliances
By Raissa Robles The Philippine military is now 3D-printing drones in preparation for future warfare and strengthening foreign partnerships, with Manila recently being recognised by Indo-Pacific defence ministers as a “frontliner” in keeping the region “free and open”. Armed Forces Chief-of-Staff General Romeo Brawner Jnr told the Foreign Correspondents Association on Friday that the 3D […]
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