Author: Peter Martin

In recent years, the relationship between the United States and the Philippines has strengthened significantly, exemplified by joint military exercises aimed at bolstering defense against potential threats from China. However, concerns have arisen in the northern Philippines where Beijing has been able to make inroads with influential figures, such as Manuel Mamba, the governor of Cagayan province. Mamba’s close ties with China, including multiple visits and possession of President Xi Jinping’s book, raise questions about the extent of Chinese influence in the region. Despite the strategic importance of the military base in northern Philippines, which the U.S. recently gained access…