Finally, some one talking sense. Thank You for asking this question.
As an Indian we have to save Indian ocean(As much as its our's) as much as possible from Chinese or from any other nation. China is trying to control which is ours from decades. I wouldn't blame China, its the fastest growing economy and demands for everything is very high in that country. So, Chines are trying to spread there wings in Indian Ocean for valuable materiel and most importantly sea lanes. We all know that most of the goods are transferred through sea not through air, during war time if you can cut off you enemies supply line you simply win the war. Most of Chinese stuff are routed through Indian ocean.
Having a reliable friend in that region means we can stop Chinese in there territory and they will never be able to make it to Indian Ocean during war time. We already have Vietnam, will get one more(Phil). So, we would like both Vietnam and Phil to be a strong in term of armed forces. I know they still have some territory issues with China.
Gain for India, China will have some sort of resistance from these country before they reach Indian Ocean, where we will be prepared after getting information from our friends. We might get a future customer for our defense equipments. Very good possibility.
I have told this thing earlier. We don't want to push Vietnam and Phil to become aggressive against China. We just want them to save them self from any aggression from any country.
Both these nations also have a backup from USA, so China will infact think twice before declaring a war against them.
Thanks again for asking a sensible question mate