In a bold assertion of maritime sovereignty, the Philippine Navy deployed two additional patrol vessels to the contested waters near Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal), following reports of Chinese coast guard ships allegedly harassing Filipino fishermen. The move comes on the ninth anniversary of the 2016 arbitral ruling, which invalidated Beijing’s expansive claims in the…
In a sweeping move that rattled global markets and reignited debates over trade nationalism, former President Donald Trump announced a new wave of tariffs targeting imports from the European Union, Mexico, and Brazil. The 30% duties, set to take effect August 1, are part of what Trump called a “One Big Beautiful Bill” — a…
On July 12, ASEAN and China finalized a sweeping upgrade to their free trade agreement, expanding cooperation in the digital economy, green energy, and supply chain connectivity. The pact, along with a five-year action plan covering 40 sectors, will be submitted to leaders in October. While hailed as a milestone in regional integration, the timing…
In a symbolic win that transcended sport, Japan defeated China 2–0 in the East Asian Football Federation Championship on July 12. The match in South Korea sets up a high-stakes final between Japan and the host nation. Beyond the pitch, the game reflects the intensifying competition between East Asia’s giants. With both countries fielding domestic…
Eleven Filipino seafarers from the MV Magic Seas, attacked by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea, returned to Manila on July 12. Their arrival marks a bittersweet moment in the country’s maritime security narrative, as 13 crew members from the MV Eternity C remain missing. The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has pledged psychosocial and…
On July 12, South Korean budget carrier T’way Air launched its inaugural flight from Seoul to Vancouver, making YVR the first North American airport to host regular service from the airline. The route, operating four times weekly, is expected to generate $39.8 million in economic output and create 237 jobs in British Columbia. Premier David…
In a bold move underscoring the shifting priorities of U.S. defence policy, the Pentagon has formally requested that Japan and Australia clarify their roles in the event of a military conflict over Taiwan. Under Secretary of Defence for Policy Elbridge Colby emphasised the need for “peace through strength,” urging allies to increase defence spending and…
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On July 12, the Philippine government marked the 9th anniversary of its landmark 2016 Arbitral Tribunal victory over China with a bold reaffirmation of its maritime claims in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). The Department of Foreign Affairs declared the ruling “a cornerstone of Philippine maritime policy,” emphasizing its role in defending national sovereignty and…
On July 12, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Wonsan, solidifying a sweeping military pact that includes mutual defense provisions and direct support for Russia’s war in Ukraine. Pyongyang reaffirmed its commitment to Moscow’s objectives, with Lavrov thanking the “heroic” North Korean troops already deployed to aid…