EDCA: For Filipino People, After All

Our history reminds us how invaders have all contributed into our now. Different cultures and various types of governments have taught us and molded us to become an independent nation. These stories from our history became our very treasure. The question is, are these sufficient to help our government attain its goals and objectives to ensure its sovereignty over our territory is protected? Can we now stand on our own?

For years, US have been rendering efforts to support and aid Philippines – both to our government and Filipino citizens. With EDCA, defense, humanitarian and relief operations will be enhanced through its trainings exercises which will be extended to our defense forces and during relief operations. Now that US and Philippines have arrived to an agreement for the same objectives, we have to assess both its advantages as against its disadvantages.

Recalling the provisions in the agreement, EDCA, for me, is useful and beneficial. However, for sure may have disadvantages as well when abused.

A third-world country, in order to effectively provide assistance to its people, to protect government's sovereignty over our territories needs a strategic defense mechanism. We should be grateful to have been given the assistance which would help improve military training for our armed forces including its advancement. We are far outdated from facilities, garrison and trainings for our forces. My father once worked with US troops when he was still in service. Based from his stories, the trainings were very different and their facilities were very impressive. I believe this is the right time to support our government in its move to advancement and developments. Really, US’ assistance is of great help.

During calamities where volunteers and financial assistance are helpful, the US government has proved their support for not only once. During the aftermath of Typhoon Yolanda, US soldiers have extended efforts and financial assistance to the government to ensure victims are safe and provided aid. Through EDCA, we are guaranteed volunteers for relief operations and humanitarian assistance as well as business & employment opportunities to people. One good effect is the modernization and booming economy of Clark, Pampanga where it paved way for various employment opportunities to Filipinos within the area. 

Considering these advancements which may improve our economy and to our government, the same may also be cause of any evil. Every help when abused may have disadvantages as well. The EDCA provides that all acts must be approved and agreed by the parties, however there are provisions where coverage and limitations are broad which must be clearly specified to ensure fairness and legality in our favor. The government must also remember that giving them the access and rights in our territory may also mean giving them chance to deprive us of our rights or encroach into our privileges. It is true that we are now in the era of advancement to protect the interests of our country but the government must not forget that the rights of its people is supreme as against any advancement, for after all, advancement in all aspect is useless if people won’t have the chance and right to enjoy such.