Filipino women's groups protest US expansion of military presence, oppose 'Silicon Peace' initiative

China News Service, Manila, November 7 (Reporter Zhou Jing) Leaders of multiple women's organizations, labor rights advocates and indigenous representatives from the Philippines held a press conference in Manila on the 6th to oppose the expansion of the US military presence in the Philippines and its "Pax Silica" initiative, calling for the maintenance of national sovereignty and protection of workers' rights.

The press conference was held on the eve of the Philippines hosting the 49th ASEAN Summit.

The participating organizations expressed concerns about the US-led "Silicon Peace" initiative, believing that relevant cooperation may affect the development of natural resources, the rights and interests of indigenous communities and the development of local industries in the Philippines. They also opposed the expansion of the US military presence in the Philippines in accordance with the "Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement".

Sharon Silva, coordinator of the Philippine "comfort women" rights protection organization, expressed opposition to the continued presence of U.S. troops in the Philippines and its control over the Philippines, and called for the abolition of the military agreement signed by the U.S. and Philippine governments. She also called for justice for war victims, including female victims of aggressive wars and women who were subjected to military sexual slavery in the Philippines and elsewhere.

The Philippine Women's Resource Center pointed out at the meeting that as ASEAN promotes trade liberalization and economic integration, the lack of effective labor protection measures may exacerbate the problems of unstable employment, low income and insufficient social security faced by female workers.

Participants called on the Philippine government to strengthen its review of foreign military cooperation and international economic initiatives to ensure that international cooperation serves the interests of its people and avoids female workers and other vulnerable groups bearing the costs of economic transformation.

Women's groups participating in the meeting expressed the hope that the Philippine government will give priority to ensuring employment, improving people's livelihood, developing domestic industries and safeguarding national sovereignty while promoting regional economic cooperation. (over)