1. US, Japan, and Philippines Conduct Joint Naval Drills in South China Sea

On March 28, 2025, the United States, Japan, and the Philippines conducted joint naval exercises near the disputed Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea. The Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity aimed to enhance crisis readiness and interoperability among the allied forces. A Chinese frigate monitored the drills from a distance but was cautioned by the Philippine navy when it attempted to approach. AP News

2. China’s Military Patrols Amidst Joint Exercises

Coinciding with the trilateral naval drills, China’s military conducted a patrol in the South China Sea on March 28, 2025. The People’s Liberation Army accused the Philippines of collaborating with foreign nations for “joint patrols” and making “illegal claims,” actions they claim destabilize the region. Reuters

3. Philippine Defense Chief Criticizes China’s Maritime Claims

Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro labeled China’s expansive claims in the South China Sea as “the biggest fiction and lie.” He emphasized the importance of upholding international law and maintaining freedom of navigation in the disputed waters. Reuters