Joint Naval Patrols Between the Philippines and the United States

The Philippine military stated today, Wednesday, that "the Philippines and the United States have begun a two-day joint patrol in the South China Sea." The Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Romeo Brawner, stated that this second joint military activity represents a "significant leap" in Manila's alliance with the United States. Tensions have escalated in the South China Sea, with the Philippines and China exchanging blame over a series of disputes. Last week, Beijing stated that it would not overlook "the repeated provocations and harassment" from the Philippines.