Philippines-China South China Sea Rift Deepens

Relations between the Philippines and China have deteriorated amid recurring South China Sea disputes, with Manila strengthening defense ties with the United States and other partners. The confrontations have included competing claims over Scarborough Shoal, a challenged Chinese research vessel, alleged dangerous maneuvers and collisions, water-cannon use against Philippine ships, and accusations involving aircraft and naval operations. Both sides have also stepped up military activity, including Philippine exercises with the United States, Japan and India and Chinese patrols and drills. Manila and Beijing have continued diplomatic engagement, including talks on energy cooperation, but the maritime incidents have sustained regional tensions.