The many US military troops the stronger we are, but Senator Alan Cayetano said that it will only be assured if the US makes a climactic statement to commit to defend the Philippine territory.

Cayetano asked by Senate reporters last Tuesday that since the treaty was after all mutual, would it also mean the US is ready to defend the Philippine territory against China?

"Let's not talk about their increased presence until they can answer the questions: Will they defend us? Will they participate? Will they help us if we have problems with our dispute with China?" Cayetano answered.

But the majority leader explained that he had no problems with the US pursuing its own interests as long as the Philippines in turn benefited from them as well.


“Our interest right now is that military hardware and modernization is expensive, they (the US) should share expenses for this so we can concentrate on economic development,” he added.

Cayetano said that in spite that China boats were kept coming in and out of the country, he had not heard any answer from the US that they will be there and repel any intrusion in the territory. He might be wrong, but he thinks the he is speaking for the majority of the Filipinos.


Furthermore, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) should also set their own agenda regarding on this matter.

“Any country would pursue its own interests,” Cayetano said. “We have to make sure that the so-called Big Brother will really be there [for us].” 


source: Interaksyon
image courtesy: Philippinesdefence