The feud between the Marcos and Duterte families in the Philippines is also a reflection of the new Cold War brewing in the region. With Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos openly welcoming expanded security cooperation with Manila’s Western allies, the Dutertes have positioned themselves as China’s best hope in the Philippines.
South China Sea Disputes
In early December, Chinese maritime forces water-cannoned Philippine resupply vessels en route to the Second Thomas Shoal, a disputed land feature in the South China Sea that hosts a small Filipino military detachment. The clash was the latest in a series of incidents as the two countries maneuver for advantage in the disputed waters.
Last week’s ASEAN Summit comes at a time of rising geopolitical tensions in the region, including between member states and China. Nevertheless, paralyzed by its commitment to unanimity-based decision-making, ASEAN is either unwilling or unable to check Beijing’s worst instincts. The result is a deepening fragmentation within the bloc.