The Washington Post reports that the Philippines is currently in negotiations with the United States regarding concerns about the rising threat of China to countries along the Pacific. Both the Philippine and American administrations are hoping to create a plan to increase the presence of the U.S. military in bases across the Philippines, effectively creating an alliance should China abuse its power. Similar deals have also been created with the United States by Australia and Singapore.
The United States has had a large presence in the Philippines before, during the time of American colonization. Though the Philippines gained independence in 1946, much of the impact of colonization and the large presence of America in Pilipino life and culture still remain. The Washington Post article mentions that within these current talks, the American government wants to “maintain a light footprint” by avoiding US-only bases and focusing on how to create legitimate partnerships for the benefit of all involved.
Actual outcomes and agreements are still being discussed, but more news is expected to materialize as negotiations continue. Please share your thoughts on these plans in the comments section below.
For more information, please read the original article by the Washington Post here:
Philippines may allow greater U.S. military presence in reaction to China's rise
*Photo by The U.S. Army
