DFA: Yolanda shows need for PH-US accord

With foreign aid helping speed up relief operations in the aftermath of Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario said this shows the need to allow increased rotational presence of American troops in the Philippines. Allowing increased troop visits for humanitarian assistance is part of the framework agreement the two countries are working out. Despite months of talks, the two governments failed to sign the agreement because of some differences in their respective positions. In the aftermath of the storm, the US was one of the biggest donors, donating $22.5 million in financial support and sending troops and aircraft to deliver much-needed food and water to typhoon-ravaged areas. New Jersey Representative Chris Smith said the disaster brought the two countries closer.

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