From Rappler (Sep 30): AFP sends more troops to guard Spratlys

The Philippines has deployed 800 more Marines and opened a new headquarters to guard its interests in the disputed Spratlys islands, which China also claims, a senior military official said Sunday, September 30. Straddling vital shipping lanes and believed sitting atop vast reserves of mineral deposits, including oil, the Spratlys chain in the South China Sea (West Philippine Sea) has long been considered a flashpoint for conflict in the region.... The Marines will not be stationed on the Spratlys but will patrol nearby....

http://www.rappler.com/nation/13335-afp-sends-more-troops-to-guard-spratlys