US needs cool head to calm troubled waters

The Philippines is again enlisting support from outside forces, the United States in particular, in its dispute with China over territory in the South China Sea. This time, it is attempting to form a "united front" to oppose China's reclamation and construction work on the Nansha Islands, turning a blind eye to the fact that the involvement of outside forces will only further complicate the situation and raise tensions in the waters.

On Monday, Philippine Defense Minister Voltaire Gazmin said his country is seeking a "stronger commitment" from Washington in the light of China's construction activities.

Gazmin will join Philippine President Benigno Aquino III on a three-day visit to Japan next week to discuss the transfer of Japanese military equipment to the Philippines. Judging by Manila's previous behavior, it will probably use the opportunity to play up its maritime dispute with China.