[fdschoeneman]

This comment ignores the facts of Chinese naval activities that many of their neighbors, including the Philippines, are wary of. You can say that US diplomacy is taking advantage of these facts in a way you don't like, but pretending the facts do not exist makes it necessary for people who do know them to ignore you.

[uoaei]

"Ignores" is a strong word, I did nothing of the sort.

The Phillippines has the opportunity to deal with their relationship with China themselves, or the US can whisper in the ears of its leaders to take certain actions, making promises to them that make the offer all but irresistible.

The way you framed your comment makes it seem like you think the Phillippines is what, too noble of a country to bend under US influence?

[fdschoeneman]

"Ignores" may or may not be a strong word, but it's certainly the most accurate one I can think of to describe what you did. You ignored it. As in you failed to account for what is called outside of China "the elephant in the room." Kind of odd that you find it triggering. It's almost as if you are not being entirely honest.