7 US solons here to discuss stronger ties with PH

MANILA, Philippines—A seven-member United States congressional delegation arrived in the country on Friday to discuss with Philippine government officials ways to strengthen ties between the Philippines and the US, as well as various issues that could affect the allocation of US foreign financial assistance.

The delegation was led by US House committee on appropriations chair Rep. Harold Rogers, who came with Representatives Norman D. Dicks, Ander Crenshaw, Rodney Alexander, Steven C. LaTourette, Tom Cole and Michael K. Simpson.

They were accompanied to a meeting on Saturday with Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario by US Ambassador to the Philippines Harry K. Thomas Jr.

The issues covered during the meeting included the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) conflict over the Spratlys islands, trade and economic relations, human rights, and issues affecting the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean), according to a statement from the DFA.

During the meeting, Del Rosario briefed the US legislators on measures being undertaken by the Aquino administration with respect to human rights and the rule of law, and moves to end the culture of impunity, the DFA said.

The foreign secretary also made a pitch for “the Philippines’ urgent need for additional Weather High Endurance Cutters (WHEC vessels) and a squadron of F-16s (fighter planes).”

Aside from trade and security relations, US appropriations for foreign aid are also tied to a country’s human rights record, including its efforts to stop human trafficking.

According to the DFA statement, Rogers had said:  “Certainly, we can attest to the fact that this administration is doing all it can to right the wrongs of the past,” adding, “we want you to know that we want you to achieve your goals.”

Del Rosario also “sought the American legislators’ support for the enactment into law of the Save Our Industries Act (Save Act) which is a ‘win-win’ proposition because it will increase US textile exports and Philippine garment exports,” the DFA statement added.

The Save Act aims to slash US tariffs on certain categories of Philippine-produced garments made of US fabrics or yarn.

The US legislators told Del Rosario they would discuss these issues with the members of the US executive branch and “keep an eye on them.”

The American lawmakers are leaving Sunday.