Military deal for U.S. and Manila

Military deal for U.S. and Manila

MANILA (AP): Philippine and U.S. officials signed an agreement on Friday granting benefits to Filipino soldiers being trained in the United States, a sweetener for an earlier pact that would allow a resumption of large joint military exercises in the Philippines.

The earlier pact, the Visiting Forces Agreement, was signed in February but must be approved by the Philippine Senate. Church and leftist groups have opposed the agreement and the return of U.S. forces.

Foreign Secretary Domingo Siazon said the second agreement, which needs no ratification, will take effect only after the VFA is approved. The VFA was submitted to the Senate on Wednesday but has yet to be scheduled for debate.

The new agreement allows Filipino defense personnel being trained in the United States to bring their dependents with them. U.S. Ambassador Thomas Hubbard said American troops who visit the Philippines for training would not enjoy similar benefits.