"I applaud this decision. It tosses out China’s ludicrous claim over almost all of the disputed waters and recognises the Philippines’ sovereign right to administer its own exclusive economic zone in what we call the West Philippine Sea. I worry, however, that China will become more bellicose in the wake of this decision and flex its military muscles more visibly, prompting the US to do the same, which could lead to heightened tensions in the region. I’m also concerned about Duterte’s seemingly pro-China stance and his desire to acquiesce to China’s demands for bilateral talks." Read more
