Duterte suspends VFA abrogation with US for another six months

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.

Presidential spokesman Harry Roque stated that the President remains undecided on terminating the VFA, necessitating the suspension.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. announced the extension, stating it allows further discussion on the key military deal and for the President to study and address his concerns regarding particular aspects of the agreement.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) stated their engagements with American counterparts will continue, focusing on enhancing interoperability and capacitation to meet evolving security threats.

The AFP also noted that the VFA has benefited both nations' armed forces.

Lawmaker Ruffy Biazon called the extension a "prudent decision" that gives a chance for the security partnership to continue and hopefully improve, especially in light of West Philippine Sea disputes.

Deputy Speaker Mikee Romero stated the extension creates space for bilateral talks on a better arrangement and terms agreeable to both the Philippines and the US.

The Department of National Defense (DND) fully supports the President's decision, with Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana stating their bilateral cooperation with the U.S. is geared towards upholding national interest and enhancing the Philippines' defense capability.

The US welcomed the decision, with the US embassy in Manila stating that their alliance contributes to the security of both nations and strengthens the rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific.

This decision comes weeks after both Manila and Washington concluded negotiations on the VFA, with Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez expressing confidence that the talks have improved the deal.