Will EDCA Really Help?

The Philippines has been conquered by different countries. Suffering after suffering, we have become a target to powerful countries and improving countries alike. They prey on us because they know we lack the technology, the resources and most importantly the defense.

The United States of America made it appear that they were here to help us during the Spanish Regime. Only to find out, they were out to conquer us too. Deceit was employed in order to make use of the vast lands for military bases, the waterways for setting up their vessels. They were successful enough to bend the government to sign the different treaties to make sure they are able to manage our resources.

The government did its part. It tried to stop the different treaties that the US government came up with. But to no avail. They were able to reduce the longevity of treaty but later on the US government still tried to come up with another one.

History keeps repeating itself. This was what came to mind when the news of the Chinese government has taken over Mischief Reef and subsequently the Scarborough Shoal. When the US bases were removed, automatically there was an impression that the hegemonic presence is also gone. This created a lot of concern to weak countries while it gave rise to the confidence of strong countries. China, being a progressing country, assumed power and seized the islands we claimed ours.

Having entered into defense treaties, I believe that the Philippines will benefit from another or from strengthening what already is in effect. Reading the decision of the Supreme Court, I cannot help but believe and agree with their decision. EDCA is there to merely implement the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT).

EDCA or Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement in itself means, uniting of the Philippines and the US in improving our defense further. This is certainly attainable give the track record of the US. But others believe this is just their ploy to further abuse our vulnerability. True enough the MDT nor EDCA will not protect the Kalayaan Group of Islands. But it will surely create a great signal and impression to others that we are not alone. And a big power is behind in helping us in case they plan to once again seize or disrespect our territories.

Again, I see EDCA as means to improve our defense, to help us and not to exploit or take advantage of our openness to outside help.