Don McLain Gill
Lecturer, Department of International Studies, De La Salle UniversityArticles by Don McLain Gill
Politics
Why the Philippines and Japan are preparing for a Taiwan contingency
As China’s maritime posture seems to be getting more muscular and the US’s intentions in the Indo-Pacific become less clear, the Philippines and Japan are seeking stronger security relations to safeguard all eventualities. Manila-based analyst Don McLain Gill explains.
Don McLain Gill
08 Jun 2026
Politics
The Philippines’ ASEAN chairmanship comes at a perilous time
As the Philippines’ ASEAN chairmanship kicks off, all eyes are on its approach to three major issues: the South China Sea dispute, the situation in Myanmar and the volatile peace along the Thailand-Cambodia border. Manila-based analyst Don McLain Gill gives his assessment.
Don McLain Gill
10 Feb 2026
Politics
Can the Philippines deter China without US backing?
Chinese water cannon attacks on Filipino fishermen at Escoda Shoal mark a dangerous escalation. Sustaining deterrence in the South China Sea now depends on US support and the Philippines’ resolve, says Manila-based analyst Don McLain Gill.
Don McLain Gill
22 Dec 2025
Politics
Malabar 2025: Proof that the Quad still works when the politics doesn’t
Despite political rifts among the Quad countries, the recent annual Malabar naval exercise which went ahead means that the Quad grouping is still relevant where it counts most: enhancing joint military interoperability and preparedness on both sides of the Indo-Pacific. Manila-based analyst Don McLain Gill shares his views.
Don McLain Gill
28 Nov 2025
Politics
Between law and power: The Philippines, China, and the future of Scarborough Shoal
China recently declared a national nature reserve at the Scarborough Shoal, despite the shoal being within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone. Manila-based analyst Don McLain Gill notes that the declaration is a continuation of China’s “grey zone” tactics to expand its control and normalise its presence in disputed areas.
Don McLain Gill
17 Sep 2025
Politics
One theatre to bind them all? Japan’s security vision faces old frictions
Commenting on Japan’s “one-theatre” concept, Manila-based analyst Don McLain Gill thinks that Japan alone will not be able to ensure the security of this strategic space; rather, this will depend on how actively involved the US, the Philippines, South Korea and Australia would be, given their geographical significance in both seas.
Don McLain Gill
16 Jul 2025
Politics
Kamandag 2025: Why US-Philippines joint drills matter now
With China in mind, the Kamandag 2025 is another opportunity for the Philippines to enhance its maritime security capabilities through its defence linkages with like-minded partners, says Manila-based analyst Don McLain Gill.
Don McLain Gill
02 Jun 2025
Politics
China’s ‘seizure’ of Sandy Cay: Can the Philippines push back?
China’s recent action on Sandy Cay, despite being largely symbolic, is a consistent representation of its goal to occupy as much of the West Philippine Sea as possible through salami slicing, asserts Manila-based analyst Don McLain Gill.
Don McLain Gill
29 Apr 2025
Politics
Strengthening ties: How the US and the Philippines are navigating the Indo-Pacific
The US is very much aware that its best bet is to invest in its security partnerships with allies that have the political will to punch above their weight in order to deter China’s aggression, says Manila-based analyst Don McLain Gill.
Don McLain Gill
08 Apr 2025
Politics
Southeast Asia looks to India as US-China uncertainty grows
Security negotiations between India and its Southeast Asian neighbours have stepped up in recent months, observes Philippines-based analyst Don McLain Gill. Flexible in its engagement strategies, India has found a role as an alternative security partner for countries in the region.
Don McLain Gill
03 Mar 2025
Politics
Typhon missile system: Philippines strengthens stance on South China Sea
The announcement of the Philippines’ plans to acquire the US’s Typhon missile system reflects Manila’s resolve to defend its territorial waters amid escalating tensions with Beijing, say Philippines-based analyst Don McLain Gill and Australian researcher Genevieve Donnellon-May.
Don McLain Gill, Genevieve Donnellon-May
14 Jan 2025