"Philippines' Military Modernization Plan Altered Amid China Clashes"

The Philippines is reevaluating its military modernization plan to enhance territorial and coastal defense in response to escalating tensions with China. The realignment aims to protect the country's territories in the South China Sea, particularly Thitu Island, which is home to over 400 Filipinos and is one of several disputed islands. The government is accelerating its acquisition plans, with a budget of 45 billion pesos allocated for defense spending in 2024. The Philippines is expecting to receive various military assets from different countries, including submarines, missile units, gunboats, and corvettes. The modernization program, known as Horizon 3, requires 500 billion pesos over the next six years, but the financing details remain unclear.