Marcos Jr. back in headlines as Philippines bolsters defense ties, energy crisis measures, and joint drills with US/Japan amid tensions in the South China Sea. Son of former dictator Ferdinand Marcos.
The US and Philippines have agreed to expand military cooperation, including deploying upgraded missile systems in the South China Sea, amid ongoing territorial disputes with China. Both sides emphasize deterrence, not aggression, as confrontations with China escalate in the region.
The Philippines has received a tanker carrying Russian crude oil, marking its first purchase in five years. This comes as the country faces a national energy emergency, with limited fuel supplies and increased reliance on Russian imports authorized by U.S. sanctions waivers. The move reflects shifting regional energy sourcing amid global disruptions.
Rising fuel prices in the Philippines, driven by the Iran war, have led to protests and strikes. The government declared a one-year energy emergency, providing subsidies and seeking alternative oil sources. Workers and transport groups demand action as costs soar, impacting daily life and the economy.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has declared a one-year national energy emergency due to global energy market disruptions linked to the Middle East conflict. The move aims to secure fuel supplies, prevent shortages, and address rising fuel prices amid protests and criticism over government response.
The Balikatan exercises are extending to include Japan, Canada and France, with more than 17,000 personnel from the Philippines, United States and allies practicing coastal defense, maritime operations and live-fire drills across multiple locations through May 8. The drills highlight a broadened security network amid ongoing tensions in the South China Sea.
Japan is discussing the potential transfer of used Abukuma-class destroyers to the Philippines as part of expanding security cooperation, with talks following Japan's policy shift on arms exports. The Balikatan exercises in the Philippines involve Japanese, American and other allied forces.
Thailand has cancelled the MOU 44 framework for joint offshore exploration with Cambodia, but will pursue maritime boundary issues under UNCLOS. Cambodia regrets the move and signals commitment to a peaceful, law-based resolution as border clashes last year underscore volatile dynamics.
Leaders of ASEAN gather in Cebu to push a regional response to energy shortages and food security amid the Middle East conflict, Myanmar crisis, and regional tensions. The draft communique emphasizes open markets, sea lanes, and a regional contingency plan, including fuel sharing and a coordinated power grid.