Gazmin: Deal on increased US troops presence unlikely this year

MANILA, Philippines - Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin remains upbeat on talks on the increased rotational presence of American troops in the country but admitted that a deal is not likely to be signed this year.

Gazmin said the Philippines and the United States remain committed to the talks, which got stalled after negotiators failed to reach a consensus on American facilities to be set up in the country.

“We are still optimistic. You know, when lawyers talk, they scrutinize everything closely so that we can be assured that when a deal is reached, it will be well-crafted,” the defense chief told reporters in Filipino on Thursday.

When asked if an agreement can be inked this year, Gazmin said: “Maybe next year. It is not likely this year because it’s only a few days before Christmas.”

Last month, Gazmin admitted that the talks on the increased rotational presence have hit an impasse since the two countries have yet to reach a deal on temporary US facilities to be set up in the country.

He admitted that the US has submitted proposals that they do not agree with. Negotiators from the two countries, Gazmin said, are also patching up differences over the wording of the agreement.

Philippine and American negotiators have held four rounds of negotiations since August.

Informal talks were held early this month in Washington but Philippine negotiating panel has not provided details.

Gazmin could not say when the fifth round of talks will be held.

The Philippines and the US have agreed to tackle the policy on increased rotational presence in the wake of China’s aggressive actions in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea).

Providing temporary access to US troops was meant to help the Philippines attain a “minimum credible defense.”

Officials have repeatedly clarified that the US would not establish permanent bases in the country as this would violate the constitution.

They stressed that the talks would also be guided by existing laws, and jurisprudence, Philippine sovereignty, non-exclusivity of use of facilities by the US side, and mutuality of benefits.