DFA on US troop presence: Not about numbers

MANILA, Philippines - The proposed framework agreement for the increased presence of US military forces in the Philippines is not about the number of troops but the initiatives and projects mutually agreed upon, according to Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario.

Del Rosario also  told ANC in an interview that increased rotational presence will not involve setting up US bases.

“No. Permanent basing is not allowed by the Constitution. We are committed to adhering to the Constitution,” he said.

The increased rotational presence framework agreement being negotiated between the Philippines and the US will be treated as a mere executive agreement that will not require Senate concurrence.

Del Rosario said the increased rotational presence, the policy which increases the presence of US forces on a rotational basis in Philippine territory toward the development of a minimum credible defense posture, is simply a deeper implementation of the Mutual Defense Treaty.

“It will be done on a military-to-military basis. It is an executive agreement that we hope will be signed in terms of this framework,” Del Rosario said.

Members of the US House of Representatives strongly pushed on Monday the framework agreement for increased rotational presence, saying the negotiation will be given a boost as a direct result of the response to the devastation wrought by Typhoon Yolanda in the Visayas that demonstrated humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

Representative Chris Smith, head of the US congressional delegation, said they are very much in favor of the strongest possible bond between the US and Philippine militaries.