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The Philippines is at risk as it lies close to the Spratly Islands’ Johnson South Reef, which the island nation claims belongs to them. However, the Johnson South Reef is allegedly equipped with Chinese anti-aircraft guns and a missile defence system which was suggested by 2016 photographs. The Philippines – which neighbours the Spratly Islands – is a long-time ally of the US but has also courted China for new investment opportunities.

In February, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo warned that if China ever attacked the Philippines it would “trigger mutual defence obligations” which are detailed in Article 4 of a Mutual Defence Treaty between the US and the Philippines.

Publisher of the Journal of Political Risk Anders Corr, said the Johnson South Reef is actually within the Philippines exclusive economic zone.

He said: “The Spratlys were mainly fished by Filipinos, but the area is now mostly fished by China, including its subsidised maritime militia.

“China gives privileged access to its own fishermen where it has control, whereas Filipino fishermen are consistently pushed out.

READ MORE: South China Sea tensions ERUPT: French warship enters disputed waters