MANILA, Philippines – Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) harassing Filipino fisherfolk and vessels have unfortunately become so common that it’s not anymore surprising when media organizations report such incidents.
Each incident – whether it’s the use of water cannons or blockades – adds to the growing list of intimidation and harassment tactics, a mark of intensifying tension between the Philippines and China.
On Thursday, June 13, Rappler senior reporters Paterno Esmaquel II and Bea Cupin sit down to discuss where the tension is headed, especially in the run-up to the 2025 midterm elections in the Philippines.
Cupin closely follows developments on the West Philippine Sea as Rappler’s security, defense, and foreign affairs reporter, while Esmaquel followed the Philippines’ legal route that le…