the International Maritime Bureau reports the territorial and offshore waters in the South China Sea as high risk for piracy and armed robbery against ships; numerous commercial vessels have been attacked and hijacked both at anchor and while underway; hijacked vessels are often disguised and cargo diverted to ports in East Asia; crews have been murdered or cast adrift
Military ::Philippines
Military branches:
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP): Army, Navy (includes Marine
Corps and Coast Guard), Air Force (2010)
Military service age and obligation:
18-25 years of age (officers 21-29) for compulsory and voluntary military service; applicants must be single male or female Philippine citizens (2010)
Manpower available for military service:
males age 16-49: 25,079,262
females age 16-49: 24,556,912 (2010 est.)
Manpower fit for military service: