Recently, a military agreement was reached between the US, Japan, and the Philippines, resulting in extensive exercises involving Japanese and European soldiers acting as observers. According to Marcos, these exercises will change the dynamics of Southeast Asia, Asia, and the South China Sea in the future.
However, China has a different perspective on these exercises. A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman stated that they would have a destructive effect on regional security. In response, the Philippine government pointed out China’s aggressive behavior, exaggerated claims, and construction of military bases in the region.
China’s People’s Liberation Army has been creating artificial islands in the South China Sea and building military bases, which have escalated tensions. In response to this aggression, the Philippine and US navies will be rehearsing storming fortified islands to demonstrate their capabilities to China.
In Washington, there is concern over the war of words between China and the Philippines as the risk of military escalation in the South China Sea is high. The hope is that with increased US military presence, China will cease its attacks on Philippine ships. However, China has responded by sending more ships to the disputed area and increasing patrols.