The Philippine government is optimistic of getting a favorable ruling from the international tribunal currently deliberating on the complaint filed by the Philippines against China over disputed territories in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea). The court started hearing the merits of the case on November 24. It is expected to hand down its final decision by mid-2016.

Valente, C. S. (2015, December 1). Court ends hearings on sea row. The Manila Times, p. A3.