Philippines**MarcosRecently targetedSecond Thomas ReefThe issue abandoned the position of cooperation with the United States and stated that it would solve the tattered "Sierra Madre" on its ownThe United States will not be allowed to interfere in the issue of repairs and supplies. This statement raises questions about whyMarcosWill he change his position, does it mean that he will completely dissociate himself from American influence?
The Philippines purchased a decommissioned Sierra Madre at the end of the twentieth century, for:Unlawful PossessionChineseSecond Thomas Reef。This oneMade during World War II, it has become obsolete, and the Philippines deliberately stranded it inSecond Thomas Reefnearby, and sent soldiers to garrison it. At one point, the Philippines planned to take theIt was transported, but due to the huge manpower and material resources required, it was finally decided to leave it in place, and it has been left for more than 20 years.
In the second half of this year, the Philippines repeatedly provoked disputes in the South China SeaSecond Thomas ReefBe the focus of Manila. The Philippines has put pressure on China by bringing in U.S. support, and joint U.S.-Philippine military exercises are becoming more frequent. China, on the other hand, has dispatched naval and air forces to safeguard its sovereignty, creating a posture of confrontation. However, the Philippines' own "Sierra Madre".However, there were serious problems of corrosion and damage, which caused the Philippine side to consider the problem of repair and supply.
China's recent tough counterattack on the Philippines is the resultMarcosAn important reason to change your position. China has taken control measures to prohibit the Philippines from transporting construction materials to the Sierra Madre, which directly dealt a blow to the arrogance of the Philippines. China has also said it will take all necessary measures to safeguard its maritime territorial integrity. Let'sMarcosRecognizing that continued collusion with the United States could provoke China, further triggering sanctions orMilitaryconflict, so he decided to give in.
However, we can't be rightMarcosOverly optimistic, he may still have other purposes. First of all, the Philippine Navy is weak, and it is difficult to quickly provide supplies for the "Sierra Madre" with construction materialsMarcosIf you want to solve this problem independently, you will most likely need to rely on the help of the United States. Second, the United States will not allow the Philippines to completely disengage from their influence, which would undo long-term efforts in the South China Sea. Therefore,MarcosThe statement is more to confuse the public and appease the anti-American forces in the country.
Considering that there are a large number of anti-American forces in the PhilippinesMarcosThere is reason to try to calm the discontent of these forces by changing their positions. These forces do not want the Philippines to form an alliance with the United States to become the "gun" of the United States. MarcosThis operation is also aimed at consolidating its own dominance and avoiding the escalation of political struggle.
MarcosThe change in attitude has been largely influenced by China's tough counterattack and anti-American forces at home. However, we cannot be overly optimistic about his statement, because he may still solve the problem of the "Sierra Madre" with the help of the United States. In addition,MarcosThe change was also motivated by political considerations, in order to maintain its dominance. Therefore, China still needs to remain vigilant, not because ofMarcosand relaxed surveillance of the Philippines.