Philippines military chief says that govt has big plans for islands in South China Sea

Philippines military chief Romeo Brawner said the govt will improve conditions in all the islands his soldiers are occupying, - Photo from Reuters

MANILA (Reuters): The Philippines will develop islands in the South China Sea that it considers part of its territory to make them more habitable for troops, Manila's military chief Romeo Brawner told reporters on Monday.

The plans come amid heightened tensions between the Philippines and China, both of whom claim territory in the South China Sea and have traded accusations of aggressive behaviour in the strategic waterway.