U.S.
forces have teamed up with the Philippines’ military to combat
terrorist groups in the country, ostensibly to bring about peace. But
numerous human rights violations have sprung up in their wake and
some believe that the U.S.’ ultimate goal may be to oust President
Rodrigo Duterte.
by
Joe Catron
Part
4 - U.S. neocolonialism unlikely to end anytime soon in the
Philippines
Shahshahani
added that U.S. involvement in the Philippines occurs across multiple
levels, with various strategies but identical goals.
“U.S.
intervention takes place in the economic, political, social, and
cultural spheres in the Philippines and perpetuates the country’s
deep-seated social and economic crisis that is the root of chronic
social unrest in the country,” she said.
“The
Filipino people have suffered the brunt of this military presence,
including sexual violence against women and children, forced
evacuation of communities in areas designated for military exercises
and operations, injuries and killings of civilians, and destruction
of the environment.”
With U.S.
forces showing no signs of leaving Marawi anytime soon, their
presence raises several questions about the future. One is the effect
that an enhanced U.S. role could have on peace talks between the GRP
and leftist or Moro groups.
Another is
the consequence of a possible power grab by the military of a
democratic country in cooperation with a foreign superpower.
“This
current situation demonstrates how divided the ruling classes are
within the current administration of Rodrigo Duterte,”
Ellorin said, adding that it “indicates intentions of the
U.S. and its loyalists in the AFP to destabilize the Duterte
administration if it does not uphold the traditional status quo of
U.S. neocolonial politics in the Philippines.”
***
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