US Pacific rebalance from the viewpoint of the Philippines UNCLASSIFIED “As the US Govt undertakes what it calls ‘rebalancing” in Asia…..the challenge for the US is to make this rebalance meaningful.” -Philippine President Aquino
Situation -Former Spanish US Colony -Independence in US treaty ally since Geo-strategic location -Strong economic and cultural ties to China and the US --SCS Territorial Disputes
Philippines Interests D-National sovereignty in lieu of increased US presence in the region I- No longer “stick man”/ Non-aligned M-Protection of territorial claims from Chinese encroachment / partnerships/HADR E-Continued Growth and socio economic development UNCLASSIFIED
Philippines Policies 1. Use regional and international forums to resolve South China Sea disputes 2. Greater rotational US presence in exchange for US commitment to territorial defense. 3.Expand existing diplomatic and economic relationships with China despite an increased US presence in region. UNCLASSIFIED
QUESTIONS?