Duterte End Visiting Forces Agreement With The US

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte terminated a two-decade-old Visiting Forces Agreement with the U.S. According to Reuters, they delivered on threats to downgrade an alliance important to U.S. interests. U.S. Defense Secretary Mark Esper called the decision “unfortunate.” He said it came during a time when they’re trying to press China to abide by “international rules of order.” Duterte’s spokesman said they ended the agreement so the Philippines could be more independent.