Over the past few months, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has portrayed China as his prime strategic partner. Some of his supporters in the legislature have even proposed a formal military alliance with China.
Yet, members of the Philippines' defence establishment and the broader media-intelligentsia complex are pushing back. In striking contrast to Mr Duterte's rhetoric, they have consistently portrayed China as a source of threat.
Already a subscriber? Log in
Dive deeper at $0.99/month
Want more exclusives, sharp insights into what's happening at home and abroad? Subscribe to stay informed.
ST One Digital Package - Monthly
$9.90 $0.99/month
No contract
$0.99/month for the first 3 months, $9.90/month thereafter. T&Cs apply.
Unlock these benefits
All subscriber-only content on ST app and straitstimes.com
Easy access any time via ST app on 1 mobile device
2-week e-paper archive so you never miss out on any topic that matters to you
