The Chinese government has proposed defense spending of 1.78 trillion yuan ($246 billion) for fiscal 2025, 7.2 % more than last year, according to a draft budget report submitted to the national legislature on Wednesday.

The China Coast Guard (CCG) has warned Filipino troops stationed on a rusting warship at Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal in the West Philippine Sea to “seriously consider the stand of the Chinese government” or else, there will be “consequences” if they insist on “making trouble.”