Biden strengthens US-Philippines alliance against China.

Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has broken from his predecessor's pro-Beijing policies, earning himself a visit to the White House and strengthening the alliance with the US to enhance deterrence against China. The US and Philippine militaries recently wrapped up major joint exercises meant to deter Chinese influence in the South China Sea, and the two countries agreed to allow the US military access to four more of the Philippine’s military bases. The renewed friendship could prove valuable to Washington and Manila, who are both struggling with increased Chinese harassment of vessels in the South China Sea and toward Taiwan.