Phl-US talks on rotational presence resumes

MANILA, Philippines (Xinhua) - Philippine and American officials started the 7th round of negotiations on Enhanced Defense Cooperation in Manila today.

"We hope to make significant progress at this round, not because of any perceived deadline, but because it is in our mutual interest to do so." Philippine Defense undersecretary Pio Lorenzo Batino told reporters shortly before the opening of the two-day meeting.

During the 6th round of negotiation in Washington early this month, the Americans agreed to allow Filipino officials access to facilities they will put up inside Philippine military camps, " subject to operational safety and security requirements."

Ambassador Eric John, head of the US panel, said they hope to reach an agreement "that helps strengthen further our individual and our collective defense capabilities."