Philippines foreign policy

President Marcos came to office promising to pursue a centrist position between the U.S. and China. Both internal and external factors complicate his plans.

The new Philippine president is promising to shift relations to a “higher gear.” But his administration’s swift re-engagement with the U.S. is likely to pose problems.

The retired foreign correspondent, who has lived in China since 1971, has vowed to build trust with Beijing, while standing up for Philippine interests.

Good relations with the Middle East would support the Philippine leader's three main domestic policy priorities.

The president-elect has sent clear signals that he doesn’t want to be too dependent on the U.S. – nor wind up too cozy with China.

The promise came following campaign trail comments advocating a bilateral deal with Beijing over outstanding maritime and territorial disputes.

Even if Marcos were to actively engage Beijing – and that’s not a given – there are hard limits to Chinese influence in the Philippines.

The May 12-13 summit will take place just days after millions of Filipinos go to the polls to elect Duterte's successor.

President Rodrigo Duterte reportedly pledged to grant the U.S. access to the former American Subic Bay naval station and Clark Air Base.

A closer look at Duterte’s foreign policy record and how things could play out in the coming months and years.

A closer look at the status of a significant agreement for defense ties.