Philippines asserts right to Joint Maritime Patrol with Australia in the West Philippine Sea

Get the latest news from the Philippines covering issues in the West Philippine Sea, the plight of OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers) caught in the conflict in Israel, and the push in the Congress for resolutions urging the government's cooperation with the International Criminal Court.

A Chinese coast guard vessel blocks the Philippine coast guard ship BRP Cabra as they approach Second Thomas Shoal, locally known as Ayungin Shoal, during a resupply mission at the disputed South China Sea on Friday Nov. 10, 2023. (AP Photo/Joeal Calupitan) Source: AP / Joeal Calupitan/AP

Key Points

• The Armed Forces of the Philippines affirmed their commitment to a three-day joint maritime patrol, including naval and air exercises with Australia in the Exclusive Economic Zone in the West Philippine Sea.
• It seems like an early Christmas for the family of OFW Noraly Babadilla as she is released following her hostage situation involving the Hamas group in Israel.
• Three resolutions, calling on the government to collaborate with the International Criminal Court (ICC) regarding the anti-drug war during the administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte, have passed through the Congress.