Philippines Hikes Defence Budget Amid China Tensions

The Philippines is planning a 25 per cent hike in its defence budget next year, mainly to bolster its claims in the disputed South China Sea, officials said on Tuesday.
The proposed 2016 national budget, which President Benigno Aquino is to present to parliament for approval on Monday, would reserve a record 25 billion pesos (£355 million) for defence spending.
Funds would be used to acquire navy frigates and patrol aircraft, budget and defence officials told AFP. Details