WORLD · VERIFIED DEVELOPMENT
Younger Filipinos Warmer to China Amid Maritime Tensions
WHY IT MATTERS
This shift in attitude highlights the growing economic ties between the Philippines and China, which could have significant implications for the region's geopolitical landscape.
What happened
In the southern Philippine city of Davao, 29-year-old Shenilane Formento, a cashier, uses her Chinese-made Oppo phone to stay informed about the South China Sea disputes. Despite frequent confrontations between Philippine and Chinese forces, Formento remains open to China, viewing the incidents as 'disappointing' but not a reason to turn away.
This shift in attitude among younger Filipinos is attributed to China's growing economic influence in the region, with many seeing the country as a vital trade partner.
Formento's experience is not unique, as many Filipinos are increasingly embracing Chinese culture and technology, which has become an integral part of their daily lives.
PRIMARY SOURCES
Why younger Filipinos are warming to China despite maritime tensions
South China Morning Post · Jeoffrey Maitem · Discovery only; publisher copyright and subscription terms apply