RECENTLY, US ambassador to the Philippines, MaryKay Carlson, in an interview, claimed that the additional bases being proposed or planned to be put up in two provinces in the north — Cagayan and Isabela specifically — 'would not only help the provincial and local authorities to enhance their ability to defend themselves but to grow their economy.'

With regard to the proposed US-Philippine joint patrols in the South China Sea, Carlson said such activities would be one important component of making sure that the waterways are free and open.