China Escalates Legal Pressure in the South China Sea

China is intensifying its “lawfare” against the Philippines, unfairly portraying Manila as the provocateur. According to The Diplomat, Beijing’s narrative aims to delegitimize Philippine maritime laws and enforcement activities, especially around Scarborough Shoal — even as international law supports Manila’s claims. The Diplomat

U.S. Marines Deploy Reaper Drones to Boost Philippine Domain Awareness

In response to increasing maritime pressure, U.S. Marine Corps has temporarily stationed MQ-9A Reaper UAVs in the Philippines, supporting shared maritime security missions in the South China Sea. These unarmed drones will help the Philippines monitor its EEZ more effectively. Defense News

China Sends Bomber Patrols to Counter Manila-U.S.-Japan Drills

Beijing has dispatched H-6 bombers and naval vessels to conduct patrols over the South China Sea — a clear signal aimed at countering recent maritime drills involving Philippine, U.S., and Japanese forces. Asia Times

Manila Calls for Tougher Action Against Chinese Aggression

In the Inquirer, defense analysts argue that the Philippines should respond to China’s provocations with more than just diplomacy, urging Manila to “give China the warfare it deserves” — legally, strategically, and institutionally.

Inquirer
(Note: This reflects opinion and advocacy, not an official policy announcement.)