By Jose Katigbak, STAR Washington Bureau @ http://www.philstar.com/headlines/803844/talks-endanger-china-claims-study WASHINGTON – Multilateral negotiations over disputed islands, rocks and reefs in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) will most likely result in China losing part of its claimed territory and maritime rights, the Center for a New American Security (CNAS) said. Also, China’s full acceptance of […]
By Jose Katigbak, STAR Washington Bureau @ http://www.philstar.com/headlines/803405/phl-needs-48-fighter-jets-6-mini-submarines-report WASHINGTON – The Philippines needs up to four squadrons (48) of upgraded Lockheed Martin F-16 fighter jets, more well-armed frigates and corvette-size, fast to surface combatant vessels and minesweepers and four to six mini submarines, possibly obtained from Russia, to build a credible defense force in the […]
By Jose Katigbak, STAR Washington Bureau @ http://www.philstar.com/headlines/775425/us-government-hand-over-second-ship-philippines WASHINGTON – The US government will hand over a second Coast Guard cutter to the Philippines with the aim of improving the country’s maritime security in light of heightened tension in the South China Sea, a congressional hearing was told. Republican Rep. Ed Royce told a House […]
By Jose Katigbak, Star Washington Bureau @ http://www.philstar.com/headlines/722244/spratlys-conflict-make-aquinos-china-visit-tense MANILA, Philippines – The Heritage Foundation in Washington said the elephant in the room in talks in Beijing between visiting President Aquino and Chinese leaders will be the ongoing tensions in the South China Sea. In the past year, China has stiffened its resolve regarding its sovereignty […]
By Jose Katigbak, STAR Washington Bureau @ http://www.philstar.com/headlines/699277/us-backs-phl-defense WASHINGTON – The United States said on Thursday it would provide the Philippines with military assets it needs to defend itself.“We are determined and committed to supporting the defense of the Philippines, and that means trying to find ways of providing affordable material and equipment that will […]