I was surprised that U.S. bases in the Phillipines are considered a major part of the defense of Taiwan. And that the Phillipines has recently allowed the U.S to add bases in their northernmost islands right next to Taiwan. But the video also cites that a change of Phillipine presidential leadership could cause the U.S. and Taiwan to lose that advantage, and the deterrence it gives against a potential invasion of Taiwan.
At first glance, it looks like the Indian Ocean, Pacific Ocean and South China Sea are wide open areas. But this and other videos clarify that from a military / naval standpoint, the shipping lanes through these areas are not as open as they look, and are vulnerable to being completely cut off at a few narrow choke points by naval blockade.
