Philippines loosens up on sea dispute

President Aquino said on Sunday, April 29, that he had issued “overriding instructions” to the military “not to escalate the issue” brewing between Philippine and Chinese troops locked in a 2-week standoff at the disputed Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea (West Philippine Sea). He added that the Chinese warnings are “not indicative” of Beijing’s “real intentions.” Aquino’s position came amid a high-level contingent’s trip to Washington to convince the United States, to side with the Philippines, a long time ally in Southeast Asia, over this contentious maritime issue. Meanwhile, Sen. Miriam Santiago said the Philippines should not expect the US to take the Philippines’ side since it is economically dependent on China.

Read more on Rappler.