SPONSORSHIP SPEECH ON SRN 312: RESOLUTION EXPRESSING THE SENSE OF THE SENATE FOR THE PRESIDENT TO RECONSIDER HIS PLAN TO UNILATERALLY WITHDRAW FROM THE VISITING FORCES AGREEMENT WITH THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Senate of the Philippines, Pasay City
February 2020

Mr. President, dear colleagues,

Destiny has located our islands in the easternmost fringes of the Asian mainland dominated by China. Early land bridges are said to have connected us with our neighbors in Asia and more particularly, Southeast Asia. This accounts for the Asian features of our physique and the presence of Chinese enclaves in our communities. The Muslim faith came to our shores by way of Southeast Asia.

Western nations reached us by way of the seas, the Pacific Ocean, in search for territory and spices. Since 1521, we have played host to colonizing forces from Spain, United States and Japan. Our family names echo American first names and Spanish surnames. We are the crucible of races, religions and philosophies.

Although historically, these nations have greatly contributed to our country’s identity, we have evolved to be independent and sovereign.

Sovereignty entails non-interference from other sovereign states; however, it doesn’t mean total isolation. International and diplomatic relations come into play to link our complex world. In this modern time, international relations is essential for many reasons: the promotion of successful trade policies between nations; nation’s cooperation with one another; advancement of human culture; and maintaining peace and order for stability.

In a developing country like ours, it is more beneficial and prudent to maintain, if not gain, allies than challenge the status quo. Our country is currently benefitting a lot from our partner states – which include the United States of America despite its geographical distance from the Philippines. We have had ups and downs in our relationship with the U.S., just like with our other allies, but our common interests outweigh our differences. Thus, based on the foregoing, it is my view that the better way to go is to review the Visiting Forces Agreement and to ask the Executive Department to reconsider its intent of abrogation.

Therefore, I urge the support of our colleagues for the adoption of Senate Resolution 312.

Thank you.