Cayetano: Will US commit to defend Philippines against China?

From InterAksyon (Aug 14): Cayetano: Will US commit to defend Philippines against China?

The stronger presence of US military troops might suggest that the US government is serious in helping the Philippines under a mutual defense treaty, but Senator Alan Cayetano says it will only be assured if the US makes a decisive statement to commit to defending Philippine territory.

Cayetano told Senate reporters in an ambush interview on Tuesday that since the treaty was after all mutual, would it also mean the US is ready to defend 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 said.

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.

“China boats keep coming in and out of the country. I have not heard a straight answer from the US that they would be there and repel any encroachment in territory. I might be wrong, but I think I am speaking for majority of the Filipinos,” Cayetano said.

He added the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) should also set their own agenda regarding the 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].” 

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/68570/cayetano-will-us-commit-to-defend-philippines-against-china