Chinese Interest in the Philippines Linked to US Military Presence

Dave Chamberlain Recent developments have highlighted a growing concern regarding foreign surveillance activities in the Philippines, particularly following the increased military presence of the United States in the region. Authorities have apprehended six foreign nationals, along with their Filipino bodyguard, for allegedly conducting intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations on Grande Island in Subic, Zambales,…

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Cambodia Celebrates Completion of China-Renovated Naval Base Amidst U.S. Concerns

Richard Sanders, Phnom Penh Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet officially inaugurated the newly renovated Ream Naval Base last Thursday, a project funded and executed by China. His remarks come in response to U.S. criticism regarding China’s influence over this strategic facility, which is situated on Cambodia’s southern coast, close to the contested South China Sea….

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China announces military exercise near Taiwan

Richard Sanders The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has initiated yet another military exercise near Taiwan, aimed at discouraging “separatism,” as announced by the Defense Ministry on Tuesday. According to Colonel Shi Yi, spokesperson for the PLA’s Eastern Theater Command, the drill involves various branches including the army, navy, air force, and rocket forces. It…

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U.S. Secretary of Defense Secretary Visits the Philippines Following Guam Trip

美国国防部长在访问关岛后前往菲律宾 Jake Sanders,Manila, Philippines – U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has arrived in the Philippines today, marking a significant stop on his inaugural trip to Asia in this role. The visit follows his previous engagements in Guam, where he expressed Washington’s unwavering commitment to the region. During his Thursday visit to Guam, Hegseth reiterated…

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Yufei Aviation Launches World’s First Ultra-Lightweight Foldable eVTOL, Ushering in a New Era of Low-Altitude Cultural Tourism

Frank Williams, Associate Editor Yufei Aviation Launches the World’s First Super Light, Foldable eVTOL, Ushering in a New Era of Low-Altitude Tourism and Leisure, grrat for Pacific Islands, Caribbean Islands also for larger markets. — Yutu A100 Debuts at New Factory in Guangzhou Huadu, Strategic Partnerships to Enhance Industry Upgrades March 26, 2025, Guangzhou Huadu,…

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The Pacific Islands Facing ‘Polycrisis’

by Martin Haffner Associate Editor The Pacific Islands, a diverse region home to over 10 million people, are increasingly confronted by a complex phenomenon known as a “polycrisis.” This term refers to the overlapping and interrelated crises that challenge the resilience of these islands, impacting their socio-economic structures, environments, and cultures. Climate change, geopolitical tensions,…

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Taiwan must be allowed to join INTERPOL

by Brian Iselin Taiwan’s absence from the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) poses a significant gap in global security, particularly in combating transnational crime. As criminal networks become increasingly sophisticated, international law enforcement cooperation is critical. Interpol plays a vital role in facilitating this cooperation through the exchange of criminal intelligence and real-time responses to…

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Great Power Competition Requires Bilateral Engagement. Are Pacific Island Nations Ready?

by Martin Haffner Associate Editor The globalization of emerging US-China rivalry, combined with worldwide concern for rising sea levels, has ushered a period in which Pacific small island developing states (SIDS) can exercise a geopolitical relevance and influence that outweighs the importance typically ascribed to SIDS, which by definition are small and underdeveloped economically. However,…

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Strengthening Global Social Protection: Cambodia’s Success and Lessons for the Future and for the Pacific Islands

written by Samheng Boros  Social protection is the foundation of any nation’s commitment to the well-being of its citizens. It serves as a vital safety net, helping vulnerable populations, supporting economic stability, and ensuring long-term growth. Around the world, countries are refining their approaches to social welfare, tailoring programs to fit their unique needs and challenges….

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