Balanced News: US backs Philippines call for China to respect law of the sea

The U.S. has spoken up in support of the Philippines amid China’s increased assertiveness in the South China Sea, which Washington says shows a “continuing disregard” for other claimants. They “also reflect continuing disregard for other South China Sea claimants and states lawfully operating in the region,” the statement said. From earlier this month, Manila has reported a large number of Chinese vessels “swarming” near Iroquois Reef and Sabina Shoal in the part of the South China Sea that the Philippines calls West Philippine Sea.