Philippine DFA: return not possible

by Sabrina Salas Matanane

Guam - Several leaders in the Philippines aren't too keen to welcoming a return of the U.S. military. The Philippine Daily Inquirer reported that the recent visit of two U.S. senators to the Subic area prompted speculation of a return of military forces to the country because the disasters in Japan may delay the planned buildup for Guam. 

In a report today, the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs says temporary U.S. presence is permitted but the return of American military bases in the Philippines is not possible under the visiting forces agreement with the U.S.

It was in the early-90's the Philippine Senate voted to reject a treaty extending the stay of Subic Navy Base and Clark Air Base during the administration of then-president Corazon C. Aquino.