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.