外交部：反对以南海问题为借口 强化军事同盟

Group 1 - The Philippines and the United States announced military cooperation during President Marcos's visit to the U.S., reaffirming that the Mutual Defense Treaty applies to the South China Sea [1] - President Marcos stated that the modernization of the Philippine military is a direct response to changes in the South China Sea situation, with U.S. deployments of intermediate-range missiles and joint ammunition bases being preparations for potential future events [1] - Japan is reportedly selling six "Abe" class frigates to the Philippines, indicating a strengthening of defense ties in the region [1] Group 2 - The Chinese Foreign Ministry expressed opposition to the strengthening of military alliances under the pretext of the South China Sea issue, stating that such actions do not resolve problems and do not intimidate China [3] - The Ministry emphasized that the Philippines should not engage in defense cooperation targeting third parties or exacerbate regional tensions, urging the Philippines to act independently and maintain regional peace and stability [3] - The statement reflects a broader concern regarding the involvement of external powers in regional disputes and the potential for increased military tensions in the South China Sea [3]