The Philippines' Shifting Alliances: Understanding its Relationship with China and the US

🌊The Philippines has shifted its alliance from China to the US due to rising tensions in the South China Sea.

🤝The historical alliance between the Philippines and the US, as well as economic ties and Filipino diaspora in the US, contribute to the strong relationship between the two countries.

🛢️The Philippines aims to secure its energy resources in the South China Sea and develop its untapped oil and gas reserves.

🇨🇳China claims nearly the entire South China Sea based on its so-called nine-dash line, while the Philippines claims a large area on its western side.

🇺🇸The US opposes China's actions in the region and remains committed to the defense of the Philippines, including the South China Sea.

Why did the Philippines shift its alliance from China to the US?

—The Philippines shifted its alliance due to rising tensions in the South China Sea and the need to protect its territorial rights. The US's opposition to China's actions in the region and its commitment to the defense of the Philippines played a significant role in this shift.

What is the significance of the historical alliance between the Philippines and the US?

—The historical alliance between the Philippines and the US dates back to the country's colonization by the US in 1898. The US has been an important economic partner and enjoys a high level of trust among Filipinos. Economic ties and the presence of a large Filipino diaspora in the US further strengthen the relationship.

What are the Philippines' objectives in the South China Sea?

—The Philippines aims to secure its energy resources in the South China Sea and develop its untapped oil and gas reserves. The country's increasing energy needs for its growing economy make the development of these resources crucial for its future energy independence.

What is China's claim in the South China Sea?

—China claims nearly the entire South China Sea based on its so-called nine-dash line, which extends its territorial claims far beyond its internationally recognized borders. This claim has been a source of tension between China and neighboring countries, including the Philippines.

What is the US's stance on the South China Sea dispute?

—The US opposes China's actions in the South China Sea and maintains a policy of freedom of navigation in the region. The US Navy and Air Force conduct operations to uphold this policy, asserting their right to sail and fly in international waters and airspace in accordance with international law.

00:00The Philippines has shifted from China to the US due to rising tensions in the South China Sea.

08:16Towards the end of Duterte's tenure, geopolitical rivalries escalated, changing the country's foreign policy.

12:26After Duterte, President Marcos Jr renewed the alliance with the US and forged ties with Australia and Japan.

13:59The future of the Philippines' relationships with China and the US may depend on the next leader in the US.