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Biazon calls on House panel to convene, discuss possible option for Philippines regarding VFA


Muntinlupa City Representative Ruffy Biazon has called on House members in the congressional committee on the Philippines-United States Visiting Forces Agreement to thoroughly discuss the possible option for the country regarding the pact.

Through House Resolution 1606, Biazon said in light of the renewed vigor in relations between the Philippines and the US governments, "now may be the opportune time for policymakers to discuss possible options for the country regarding VFA."

Biazon said the volatile situation in the West Philippine Sea — as well as the need for the Philippine military to modernize and improve its systems to conduct humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations — "compel [the Philippines] to seek and maintain alliances with other countries."

President Rodrigo Duterte has said he wants to listen first to public opinion before deciding if he will abrogate or renew the VFA, which allows American troops to hold military exercises with their Filipino counterparts in the country.

Duterte had ordered the abrogation of the VFA after the US government revoked the visa of his close ally, Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa.

According to Biazon, lawmakers, being representatives of Filipino citizens, are in position to help Duterte about the matter. —KBK, GMA News

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