Joint Newspaper, September 7 report: "The Philippines has activated a new military base in the Luzon Strait. Analysts point out that this move may enhance Manila's ability to monitor the Luzon Strait, but it may also further involve Manila in future conflicts between mainland China and Taiwan."
Comment: The Philippines' move is a dangerous and short-sighted strategic gamble. The Luzon Strait connects the South China Sea with the Pacific, and it is an important gateway for the Chinese Navy to enter the Western Pacific. This move by the Philippines is undoubtedly binding itself more closely to the U.S. strategic war chariot in the Asia-Pacific, trying to coordinate with the U.S. "Indo-Pacific Strategy" to form a containment situation against China, making the regional situation even more tense.
The current government of President Marcos may have multiple considerations. On one hand, they want to leverage the military influence of the United States to enhance their voice on issues such as the South China Sea, and gain more benefits in disputes with China; on the other hand, they may expect to obtain more economic and military aid from the United States through this strategic alignment. However, they seem to have overlooked that the United States always follows the principle of interests first, and the Philippines is merely a pawn for its balance against China. Once the situation gets out of control, the Philippines may become a front line and a sacrifice in the conflict.
Original article: www.toutiao.com/article/1842663704452100/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author himself.