Philippines ‘rebuilding runway on South China Sea island’

Here is some background information: After the Filipino volcano of 1991 destroyed Clark AFB and Subic NB negotiations for base leases were conducted. The Philippines wanted to increase the lease by 10 times (if memory serves me properly) which the US refused. Many of the elite and wealthy Filipinos were concerned about their sovereignty as the US presence would make them feel like a colony. The fact that the Americans lost around 80,000 to liberate the Philippines did not resonate with the Filipino politicians and the president.

Just recently, President Duarte of the Philippines mentioned he had no qualms of the sovereignty of her water ways and disputed islands. He said China is a friend which emboldens the Chinese government. Now the president and government has consented to lease 4-5 bases to the US, however, none are navy bases. President Duarte is in a mess because he speaks with two sides of his mouth.

I can sure understand the Philippines concern and do something with this island before China does. With all the South China sea basing lately the Chinese have been doing it concerns many nations in that area and even Viet Nam, South Korea, Japan etc had been building up due to concerns about China.

Thank you for the news share.