China, Philippines: The Latest Conflict in the South China Sea

An ongoing standoff between China and the Philippines over the Second Thomas Shoal — a remote shallow coral reef in the Spratly Islands — could be a new flashpoint in the countries' ongoing territorial tensions in the South China Sea. The standoff is another example of Beijing's intention to enforce its territorial claims in the disputed waters. China's relatively advanced military and technological capabilities leave Manila with few options to physically counter Beijing's claim without relying on a third party. China is betting that a lack of willingness on the part of the United States will allow it to strengthen its occupation of the islands and islets it wishes to claim, and Beijing is working to force Washington to recognize China's maritime presence and interests.