Solons urged gov’t to bref on EDCA
THE national government has been asked to give Congress briefings about the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).
Deputy Speaker and Batangas Rep. Ralph Recto made the call following reports that the administration and the United States of America have agreed to four EDCA.
Recto said the public, through their representatives, has the right to know where these additional four will be.
“National security is not harmed by that candor. But any secrecy will deal with transparency, an avowed hallmark of this administration, a serious blow,” Recto said.
The veteran lawmaker wanted answers to these questions” What are the benefits that we as a nation will gain from the EDCA 9? Panalo ba ang bayan diyan? At ano naman kaya ang maaring perwisyo, kung meron man?”
“The men from Washington who came to town said they would like to speed up EDCA’s implementation. If that is what they desire, then what is the ultimate goal? Ilang military bases pa ba ang sasaklawin sa darating na panahon?” his additional questions.
Recto also asked “Are we being built up as their armed garrison in the Pacific as a tripwire to Chinese expansionism?
“By agreeing to EDCA plus, Defense officials would have first studied its ramifications, specifically the potential reaction from other states, and our planned responses,” he said.
While he is giving full support he wanted to ask some questions.
“In principle, this is an administration prerogative I support. But I ask that whatever agreements be made public and the pros and cons be told. What triggered the expansion? Are the 9 bases the sum of our fears?” he said.
