Philippines Warns China: South China Sea Clashes Near Act of War
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has warned China that any Filipino deaths resulting from Chinese actions in the South China Sea would be considered "an act of war," potentially invoking the US-Philippines defense treaty. The warning comes amid escalating tensions and aggressive clashes between Chinese and Philippine forces. Both the US and China have expressed a desire to improve communications to avoid conflict, despite ongoing disputes and military posturing in the region.