Will scrapping VFA truly boost Philippine defence capabilities?

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The Philippine Military Believes Scrapping the VFA Will Enhance Defence Capabilities and Alliances

The Philippine military has expressed support for President Rodrigo Duterte's decision to terminate the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) with the United States. Military chief General Felimon Santos stated that abrogating the VFA will enable the Philippines to accelerate its defence modernization program and foster expanded engagements with Australia and Japan. This move is seen as an opportunity to procure military assets from nations other than the US, with examples including the acquisition of planes and ships from South Korea, and to independently enhance intelligence-gathering operations against Islamist extremists.
Increased Military Modernisation and Diversified Procurement

The Philippine armed forces anticipate that the termination of the VFA will provide a stronger impetus for their defence modernization efforts. General Santos indicated that the military is already in the process of acquiring new planes and ships from countries such as South Korea, signalling a strategic shift away from sole reliance on the United States for defence equipment. This diversification in procurement is viewed as a means to build indigenous capabilities and reduce dependence on any single foreign partner, thereby strengthening the nation's self-sufficiency in defence.
Expansion of Alliances and Engagements

Beyond modernization, the Philippine military sees the VFA's termination as a pathway to broadening its strategic partnerships, particularly with Australia and Japan. Both nations are key allies of the United States and share similar regional security interests. By disentangling from the VFA, the Philippines aims to cultivate more direct and robust defence cooperation with these countries, potentially leading to more joint exercises and intelligence sharing that are tailored to its evolving security needs.
Emphasis on Military Independence and Self-Reliance

President Duterte's administration, through spokesman Salvador Panelo, has articulated a strong stance on military independence. Panelo stated that a nation's defence mechanisms weaken when it relies heavily on another country for its security. The objective, therefore, is for the Philippines to stand on its own, fostering a self-reliant defence posture rather than being perceived as a "parasite" in protecting its sovereignty. This philosophy underpins the rationale for ending the VFA, which facilitates the presence of thousands of rotating US troops in the Philippines for joint exercises.

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Will scrapping VFA truly boost Philippine defence capabilities?

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