The China in Africa Podcast [GLOBAL SOUTH] South China Sea Update: Will the U.S. Really Defend the Philippines Against China?
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Apr 14, 2025 
Ray Powell, Director of the Sea Light Initiative at Stanford, and Edwin Shri Bimo, CGSP's Southeast Asia Editor, unpack the complexities of the South China Sea tensions. They discuss the recent near-collision incidents between the Philippines and China and how this strains regional dynamics. The conversation highlights the Philippines' military upgrades and U.S. commitment to its defense, contrasting with America’s stance on other allies. They also examine Indonesia's role in the territorial disputes and the historical context shaping these geopolitical anxieties.
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South China Sea Standoff
- Last summer, tensions escalated at Second Thomas Shoal with a dramatic showdown involving the Chinese Coast Guard and Philippine boats.
- A Philippine sailor lost a thumb, leading to a truce with differing narratives from each side.
Philippines' Special Treatment
- The Philippines receives special treatment from the U.S. administration, unlike Japan and South Korea.
- Their Transparency Project highlighted their plight, gaining sympathy and attention.
Trump's View on Japan vs. Philippines
- Trump's negative views on Japan stem from decades-old trade disputes and perceived security imbalances.
- He doesn't view the Philippines similarly, potentially due to less pre-existing bias and the Philippines' effective transparency campaign.