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Washington and Beijing are arguing for supremacy in the South China Sea. In the battle of the superpowers, the Philippines have been caught in the crossfire. Resistance to Chinese expansionism is forming there. Nowhere does the danger of the simmering conflict between China and the USA escalating seem greater. For decades, the People's Republic of China has been expanding its military presence in the South China Sea between Taiwan, Indonesia and the Philippines. China is not only occupying atolls and reefs, but is turning them into military outposts - especially on Philippine territory. Resistance to Chinese expansionism is growing there. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Junior is defying China and turning away from his predecessor's pro-China policy. Much to Beijing's annoyance, he is working with Western partners, particularly the USA. Since then, the situation in the South China Sea has escalated. Clashes between Philippine and Chinese ships are becoming more and more frequent. This exacerbates the situation, as Manila and Washington have been linked by a far-reaching defense agreement since 1951: Similar to a NATO alliance, both countries are obliged to defend each other in the event of an attack. In addition, the USA has secured access to nine Philippine military bases where it can station troops and equipment - some of them just a few hundred kilometers from China and Taiwan. In the event of a war between the USA and China, the Philippines would be a frontline state. The island kingdom has become the demarcation line in one of the most explosive sea areas in the world. Will there be an escalation on one of the world's most important trade routes? Filmmaker Carsten Stormer, who has lived in the Philippines for many years, sets out to find out more. Documentary, Director: Carsten Stormer (Germany 2024, 52 min) #philippines #china #southchinasea Video available until 16/12/2024 Link to the media library: https://www.arte.tv/de/videos/115487-... Subscribe to ARTE's YouTube channel: / artede Follow us on social networks: Facebook: / arte.tv Twitter: / artede Instagram: / arte.tv