It appears current saber rattling about the Philippine/American Mutual Defense Treaty is only that. Saber rattling.
The current treaty is law in both nations as ratified according to constitutional requirement in both nations. It's unclear if a president has authority to terminate the treaty. But it is clear that one party has to issue 1 year notice of intention to terminate the treaty.
The USA has stated they will uphold the provisions of the treaty. Probably means America will defend Philippines 1 year even if Philippines issues notice of termination of the treaty. Looks like expats will have adequate warning to take measures necessary for avoiding being caught up in hostilities between China and Philippines in the future. China's belligerent statements and actions in The South China Sea are quite alarming for those not wishing to live under communist rule. I'm hoping cooler heads will prevail and nations will separate drug wars from military wars. I do agree with those that say America should clean up it's own problems before using their energies to mess with other nations problems. Especially when it comes to illegal narcotics problems. Maybe others have comments ?
The current treaty is law in both nations as ratified according to constitutional requirement in both nations. It's unclear if a president has authority to terminate the treaty. But it is clear that one party has to issue 1 year notice of intention to terminate the treaty.
The USA has stated they will uphold the provisions of the treaty. Probably means America will defend Philippines 1 year even if Philippines issues notice of termination of the treaty. Looks like expats will have adequate warning to take measures necessary for avoiding being caught up in hostilities between China and Philippines in the future. China's belligerent statements and actions in The South China Sea are quite alarming for those not wishing to live under communist rule. I'm hoping cooler heads will prevail and nations will separate drug wars from military wars. I do agree with those that say America should clean up it's own problems before using their energies to mess with other nations problems. Especially when it comes to illegal narcotics problems. Maybe others have comments ?
