The Philippines has officially declared it will abandon Chinese financing for three railway projects valued above US$5 billion. These projects, which were agreed upon with Beijing during Duterte's presidency, have been subject to scrutiny due to stalled progress. This move coincides with escalating tensions between the two nations in the South China Sea.

Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno's communication to Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian marks a significant pivot in Manila's approach. With the Philippines exploring financing from other Asian countries and multilateral lenders, it raises questions about the future of Sino-Philippine economic relations