(Eagle News)– Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo said on Wednesday (October 7) that the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) was valid according to the document Instrument of Ratification which contained the signature of former President Benigno Aquino III.
“It is a valid agreement but what we are saying is that it is subject to review and evaluation,” Panelo told reporters.
After finding Aquino’s signature, Panelo said he immediately informed President Rodrigo Duterte about it.
“‘I said, ‘Mr. President, pirmado and it was authorized.’ Tumango siya (Duterte),” he said.
Under EDCA, the US will be allowed to build structures; store as well as pre-position weapons, defense supplies and material; and station troops, civilian personnel and defense contractors, transit and station vehicles, vessels, and aircraft for a period of 10 years.
After 10 years, the deal can be terminated either by the Philippines or the US as long as there is a one-year written notice.
The government offered eight bases to be used by US for their facilities and storing of supplies and equipment.
Earlier, Duterte called on a review of the agreement, saying it does not have any signature of a Philippine president.
“It does not contain the signature of Aquino. There is none. Better think twice now because I would be asking you (American troops) to leave the Philippines altogether,” Duterte said in a speech.