The United States and the Philippines diplomatic relationship can be traced all the way back to 1946. The diplomatic relationship between these two countries is based on the goal of preserving and strengthening democratic ideals. As the United States oldest ally in Southeast Asia, the Philippines has relied on the United States for economic, humanitarian aid, and military/security assistance.
However, earlier this year President Rodrigo Duterte threatened to repeal the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA). The agreement enables U.S. service members to operate freely in the Philippines. President Duterte made these claims because Ronald dela Rosa’s (Philippine Senator) visa was denied. Sen. Ronald dela Rosa was the police chief in 2016 and is directly tied to the “War on Drugs” which killed thousands of individuals regardless of innocence or guilt. However, Duterte’s hatred and dislike towards the United States has been documented well before Rosa’s visa was denied. Ultimately, he believes that the Philippines would be better off without the United States.
Duterte fails to realize the importance of the United States. For example, the United States has provided about $9.3 million to help the Philippines fight COVID-19. According to the US Philippine Embassy, it has helped boost testing capacity, infection control, and enhanced risk preparedness and crisis communications. The United States has also spent $143 million for Typhoon relief which is an ongoing problem in the Philippines. Not to mention, the United States is the Philippines biggest foreign investor.
While all of these reasons are legitimate motives for the Philippines to maintain relations with the United States, without the United States democratic ideals would cease to exist in the Philippines. The United States through its military and economic aid has helped the Philippines maintain its independence. The Philippines identity and independence would be in trouble and vulnerable to China’s takeover.
CIMA Law Group Blog 