Now playing out in a hitherto-neglected region of the world – but not that far from our own beleaguered corner – is the escalating tension between the United States and China.
At Ground level | US reasserts presence in Pacific island nations
Tags: EDCA
At Ground Level | US, Phl update defense guidelines
The US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty, nearly 75 years old now, is being dusted off in the light of “current and emerging threats” to the two countries – read: China’s increasing belligerence about Taiwan and its own maritime claims over almost the entire South China Sea.
Marcos Jr. met with protest in the US
Even in the US, the message is clear: “Philippines is not for sale!”
In Zambales, 18-day fishing ban during Balikatan ‘highly unacceptable’
A Filipino fisherfolk group decried the “no-sail zone” policy in at least five towns in the province of Zambales in the 18-day run of joint military exercises between the US and Philippine troops.
Pigs
By DEE AYROSO
At Ground Level | How far EDCA sites will be used remains unclear
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said those investments “will spur job creation and economic growth in local Philippine communities.” His enthusiasm may have exhilarated the current administration, especially the defense establishment. But to us, the Filipino people, one crucial issue remains unclear, even disturbing: how exactly or to what extent the American forces will use the EDCA sites.
TEKA SANDALI | Ano nga ba ang EDCA?
Malacañang recently announced the four new sites for the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), a treaty that the progressives dubbed as lop-sided for the Philippines. In this episode, we unpack what deals may burden the Filipino people and its violent nature.
The Untouchables
By DEE AYROSO
Groups slam US defense chief’s visit, call for the junking of VFA, EDCA
Progressive groups said the Filipino people will not benefit from the increased US military presence in the country, urging the public to never forget the horrors that the American troops have committed under the lopsided military deals.
Groups condemn heightening U.S. military intervention in PH
“Filipinos must not allow our country to be used as staging ground for any US military intervention in the region. The US is engaged in provocations with China using the issue of Taiwan. Allowing US use of our facilities will drag us into this conflict which is not aligned with our national interests” — Bayan
US Defense visit to accelerate US military intervention in the PH – progressives
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III left for the Philippines and South Korea on Jan. 29, to “advance regional stability and further strengthen” its partnership with the two countries.