Pacific Ocean Asia) is in the Eastern Hemisphere, while the "East Pacific" (or "eastern Pacific", near the Americas) is in the Western Hemisphere. The Southern Pacific Ocean harbors the Southeast Indian Ridge crossing from south of Australia turning into the Pacific-Antarctic Ridge (north of the South Pole) and merges with another ridge (south of South America) to form the East Pacific Rise which also connects with another ridge (south of North America) which overlooks the Juan de Fuca Ridge. For most of Magellan's voyage from the Strait of Magellan to the Philippines, the explorer indeed found the ocean peaceful. However, the Pacific
Philippines and the Spratly Islands are occupying and/or controlling ten features, (seven islands, three reefs): By comparison, within the Spratly Islands: Also, the Philippines has some features that are "virtually occupied". These are features that lie in very close proximity to Philippine-occupied features, and can be seen within the horizon. (A 15 meter-height vision gives about of horizon distance). These include: North Reef, Sandy Cay, Loaita Nan and Loaita Cay. Also, most features that lie to the east of the 116°E, though not necessarily occupied, are largely controlled by the Philippines. The Philippine assertion of sovereignty over the Spratly Islands began in May 1956, when