by Sabrina Salas Matanane

Guam - Military Buildup Chair Senator Judi Guthertz isn't surprised by reaction in the Philippines as the country has had a long history of strong demonstrations for years and has been vocal against any U.S. involvement in the country. Although the country believes any U.S. involvement may exacerbate tension, Guthertz believes their presence will bring the exact opposite.

"I think the U.S. role is to reinforce the Philippines security against any incursions and efforts to make incursions from the people's republic of China and to retain a very strong historical relationship with the United States, which it has had since 1898," she said.

She believes DOD isn't looking to set up U.S. bases in the Philippines, rather working with existing facilities under federal control and having U.S. troops conduct training and exercises with Philippine Armed Force members. Guthertz meanwhile will conduct a roundtable meeting tomorrow morning at 9:30 at the Public Hearing Room to allow for extensive comments on the Draft Compatibility Sustainability Study, which are due February 10.