The Philippines-China Asymmetric Relations and Possible Scenarios in The South China Sea

摘要

This paper proposes a scenario for solving the stalemate between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea using Brantly Womack's Theory of Asymmetry. The central hypothesis is that, given the asymmetry of material (economic and geopolitical) capabilities between the two countries, it is possible to find an intermediary path of negotiation through mutual concessions, so that the final outcome serves the interests of both parties.