China's Defence Minister Dong Jun (C) is surrounded by media and his delegation after a bilateral meeting with US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin on the sidelines of the 21st Shangri-La Dialogue summit at the Shangri-La Hotel in Singapore on May 31, 2024. The US and Chinese defence chiefs held rare direct talks in Singapore on May 31, offering hopes for more military dialogue that could help prevent disputes over Taiwan and other flashpoint issues from spinning out of control. Photo by NHAC NGUYEN / AFP

China Accuses Philippines of Provocations Amid Rising Tensions

China’s defense minister highlights the need for renewed military communications with the United States amid rising tensions in the Asia-Pacific. He accuses the U.S. of causing friction by supporting Taiwan and the Philippines. The minister emphasized China’s commitment to regional stability and criticized external forces for creating chaos. The territorial disputes in the South China Sea, especially with the Philippines, have intensified, with the latter leaning more towards the U.S. since 2022. Learn more about these escalating tensions and geopolitical dynamics.

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PAG-ASA ISLAND INSPECTION Previous reports had it that dead and crushed corals were dumped on Sandy Cay 2 in Pag-asa Group of Island, prompting the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to visit and verify the reports. Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga (partly covered) personally led the visit to inspect the island. Photo from DENR

Scientists Advocate for Sustainable Management in West Philippine Sea

A group of leading scientists is advocating for the long-term monitoring and sustainable management of resources in the West Philippine Sea. This call comes amid increasing tensions between the Philippines and China, highlighting the need for proactive measures to safeguard the region’s ecological and geopolitical stability. The University of the Philippines Diliman College of Science hosted a public forum to discuss these issues, emphasizing strategies for protecting marine resources and addressing threats such as climate change, overfishing, and plastic waste. Learn more about the collective efforts required to ensure the region’s sustainability.

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