Returning to a supposed Duterte-era deal to preserve peace in the Spratly Islands would be a pragmatic step for the Philippines amid increased militarisation. China should opt for economic investment instead of military assertiveness which only serves to harden negative public opinion among Filipinos.
China finds itself in need of its latest landmark reform as the urban-rural divide keeps growing and the broader economy is seeking new sources of growth. One possible solution is finding better uses for rural land and giving farmers the same legal rights as urban residents to rent, transfer or mortgage their land.