Manila Bulletin
Duterte tells US to explain inaction in Panatag standoff before discussing VFA
President Rodrigo Duterte stated that the future of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) between the Philippines and the United States hinges on an explanation from the US regarding its role in the 2012 Scarborough Shoal standoff.
Duterte wants to understand why the US, which brokered a deal for both countries to withdraw vessels, did not compel China to leave the shoal.
He indicated that he would only reconsider the VFA if the US provides a clear and understandable explanation to the Filipino people.
The President believes the Philippines lost islands to China because of the 2012 standoff and America's intervention.
Duterte made these statements during an interview with Pastor Apollo Quiboloy on SMNI.
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President Rodrigo Duterte has again suspended the abrogation of the Philippines' Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) with the US for another six months, extending the deal until February 2022.
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An 'improved' and 'strengthened' Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) that allows military training between Filipino and American troops is awaiting President Rodrigo Duterte's approval over a year after he ordered its termination.
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