Strong US-Philippines defence ties could affect Asean, expert claims

China studies expert Ngeow Chow Bing has warned that strengthened defence cooperation between the United States and the Philippines could potentially impact Asean unity amid escalating tensions with China.

Specifically, Ngeow cited the additional permissions granted for the US military to access four more bases under the Enhanced Defence Cooperation Arrangement with the Philippines.

“The breakdown of Asean...