The exact circumstances of the latest tussle in the South China Sea is shrouded in contradictory statements. What’s clear, however, is that the South China Sea disputes are entering a dangerous phase. America has clarified that its Mutual Defense Treaty with Manila covers any attack on Filipino troops, public vessels and aircrafts in the South China Sea area. By every measure, China is the dominant party in the South China Sea disputes. And it’s natural for weaker neighbors to seek help from powerful nations to balance the scale in the South China Sea.