The Gradual Softening of the Philippines’ Hedging Strategy towards China under President Duterte

Under President Rodrigo Duterte, in office since 2016, the Philippines’ traditional hedging strategy towards China gradually softens. Due to Chinese investments as part of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) the relations have become closer, while security relations with the United States remain strained. The ongoing territorial dispute in the South China Sea and the negative perceptions of the Philippine citizens on China, however, serve as a corrective for strong bandwagoning with China.