The influence of domestic politics on Philippine foreign policy : the case of Philippines-China relations since 2004

Abstract

This paper sets out to explore the role of domestic politics in the shaping and

implementing of Philippine foreign policy and its relations with China. It examines

how domestic politics have driven Philippine foreign policy behaviour towards China;

whether the Philippine Government has successfully managed the domestic drivers in

promoting the state’s interests in its relations with China, and whether there are major

constraints that have prevented the attainment of more desirable outcomes in the

bilateral ties. It looks at three cases: the Philippines-China joint marine seismic

undertaking in the South China Sea; China’s participation in the national broadband

network project and a railway project; and Philippine reactions to China’s execution

of three Filipino drug mules.