The West Philippine Sea, let’s face it, has become a hotbed of drama, intrigue, and enough geopolitical maneuvering to give even the most seasoned diplomat a headache. Behind the lofty rhetoric and diplomatic posturing, the territorial dispute with China, whether you agree or not, has been turned into a battle of narratives or, as some cheeky folks like to call it, a game of “marites” warfare. (Marites, for the uninitiated, actually means “Mare, anong latest?” referring to the hottest narrative or rumors.)

Angeles, M. (2024, May 16). WPS: 'Marites' warfare?. Daily Tribune, p. A5.