Protests Erupt as Barack Obama Signs Philippines Military Deal: 'Our Goal is Not to Contain China'


The signing of a controversial 10-year agreement giving the US military greater access to bases in the Philippines has led to protests during US President Barack Obama's state visit to Manila.


no 1 terrorist

Activists from "Bayan Muna" (My Country First) sit in front of a mock US flag before the start of a march to the American embassy in Manila to protest against a state visit by Barack Obama.Reuters



Protesters burned mock US flags and chanted "no-bama, no bases, no war" on the road leading to the gates of the palace where Obama met with Philippine President Benigno Aquino III. Others burned an effigy of Obama riding a chariot pulled by Aquino, who was depicted as a dog.


The deal will give American forces temporary access to selected military camps and allow them access to commandeer fighter jets and ships. Although many see it as an effort to counter Chinese aggression in the region, Obama said his message to China is: "We want to be a partner with you in upholding international law. Our goal is not to counter China. Our goal is not to contain China. Our goal is to make sure international rules and norms are respected and that includes in the area of international disputes."



Activists drag an effigy of Barack Obama riding Philippine President Benigno Aquino along a main road towards the presidential palace in Manila.

Activists drag an effigy of Barack Obama riding Philippine President Benigno Aquino along a main road towards the presidential palace in Manila.Reuters



Protesters burn an effigy of US president Barack Obama in Manila in opposition against his state visit to the Philippines.

Protesters burn an effigy of US president Barack Obama in Manila in opposition against his state visit to the Philippines.Getty



US President Barack Obama speaks to American and Filipino troops at the Fort Bonifacio Gymnasium in Manila. Obama said a new military pact granting a larger presence for US forces would bolster the Southeast Asian country's maritime security, but was not aimed at countering China's growing military might.

US President Barack Obama speaks to American and Filipino troops at the Fort Bonifacio Gymnasium in Manila. Obama said a new military pact granting a larger presence for US forces would bolster the Southeast Asian country's maritime security, but was not aimed at countering China's growing military might.Reuters



A protester dressed as the Statue of Liberty poses in front of a mock-US flag.

A protester dressed as the Statue of Liberty poses in front of a mock-US flag.Getty



Protesters burn a giant mock US flag near the American embassy in Manila.

Protesters burn a giant mock US flag near the American embassy in Manila.AFP



US President Barack Obama and Philippine President Benigno Aquino toast during a State Dinner inside Malacanang presidential palace in Manila.

US President Barack Obama and Philippine President Benigno Aquino toast during a State Dinner inside Malacanang presidential palace in Manila.Reuters



Protestors march during a rally to protest against US president Barack Obama's state visit.

Protestors march during a rally to protest against US president Barack Obama's state visit.Getty



Anti-Obama protesters march towards the US embassy carrying signs spelling out

Anti-Obama protesters march towards the US embassy carrying signs spelling out "Obama not welcome".Getty



Anti-US protesters clash with riot police using water cannons near the American embassy.

Anti-US protesters clash with riot police using water cannons near the American embassy.Getty



An activist uses a placard to protect herself from the blast of a water cannon.

An activist uses a placard to protect herself from the blast of a water cannon.Reuters






YOU MIGHT LIKE THISSponsored Content by Taboola



No comments:

Post a Comment