US-Philippines Deal Affirms Defense Committment

MANILLA, Philippines - President Barack Obama is wrapping up his Asian trip Tuesday emphasizing U.S. commitment to allies in the region, including the Philippines.

President Obama paid an official visit to Philippine President Benigno Aquino lll at the Malacanang Palace. Both world leaders described the visit as historic.

The meeting focused on modernizing and enhancing trade, defense, and cultural ties between the two countries.

The two signed a 10-year enhanced defense cooperation agreement that aims to strengthen the mutual defense treaty between the Philippines and the United States. Revisions to the 62-year-old pact allow more American troops to use selected Philippine bases.

The agreement is designed to counter Chinese aggression over disputed territories in the South China Sea that are rich in oil, gas, and marine resources. 

Obama and Aquino stressed the pact was not a direct challenge to China. Both countries consider China a key partner in upholding international, law which is necessary in bringing progress to the region.

"We want to say to China, we will be a partner with you in upholding international law. I believe bigger countries have a bigger responsibility to uphold international law," Obama said.

"The new agreement with the U.S. takes our security cooperation to a higher level of engagement and promotes regional peace and stability," Aquino said.

But protesters are objecting to greater access given to U.S. troops in the Philippine bases. They believe it will drag the Philippines into war with China.

But President Obama suggested war may actually be averted through the strengthening of an old alliance.

"Our commitment to defend the Philippines is iron clad. And the United States will keep that commitment because allies never stand alone," he said.