US access to new military sites won't raise tensions: Philippine President
Pham Ha, VOV correspondent in Indonesia -
(VOVWORLD) - Giving the United States military access to four new bases in the Philippines under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) will not be seen as a "provocation" that could further heighten tension in the South China Sea (called the East Sea in Vietnam), President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said.
 Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (Photo: Manila Times) |
The Philippine President was reacting to growing concerns that allowing the expansion of US military presence in the country will not sit well with other countries.
Marcos told reporters in Manila that anything that the Philippines is doing should not be seen as provocative to anyone. He said he has always been for maintaining peace in the region, and will avoid moves that will disrupt that peace.
Earlier this month, the US and the Philippines designated four additional bases for US troops to operate from as both countries agreed to accelerate the implementation of the EDCA that will house American troops and their equipment in Philippine military camps located in strategic areas of the country.
China criticized the agreement, saying US actions escalate regional tension and undermine regional peace and stability.
Pham Ha, VOV correspondent in Indonesia