South China Sea and China (2011-2017)

[Dayuhan]

Philippines, US agree to build up PH defenses

http://globalnation.inquirer.net/353...up-ph-defenses

US neutral in Scarborough standoff but will help upgrade Philippine Navy

http://globalnation.inquirer.net/354...hilippine-navy

Lawmakers lament US ‘hands-off’ position

http://globalnation.inquirer.net/354...80%99-position

Despite all the talk, the US isn't actually offering anything beyond sale of a second retired Coast Guard cutter, which was already agreed on months ago. Nothing really new anywhere in the statements; essentially it's just a restatement of the status quo ante.

There were discussions some time back between the Philippines and Italy over purchase of frigates and aircraft, I wonder if that will be revived. Some Philippine legislators were apparently hoping that a flap with China would persuade the US to give them a Navy and an Air Force, either free or on the cheap, and that's clearly not about to happen.