Women, Justice & Peace and Integrity of Creation Committee
STATEMENT AGAINST BALIKATANEXERCISES IN MINDANAO
Since the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) was signed under the Estrada
regime and the Mutual Logistics Support Agreement (MLSA) under Gloria
Macapagal-Arroyo, thee have been on-going Balikatan military exercises in
the country with the participation of U.S. troops. From 2,50 in 2000, it
reaced to 6,400 American troops in 2006. In Mindanao, 25 military
exerciseshave been launched since 2002.
Today, another Balikatan is being launched. Balance Piston 08 will run
from Feb.18 - March 2, 2008 affecting Cagayan de Oro City, Bukidnon and the
Lanao provinces. With the expected participation of 6 000 U.S. troops,
Mindanao is virtually a war zone.
Are we going to have another Buyong-Buyong Isnijal ( a civilian shot by
Sgt. Reggie Lane
in Basilan) in these places? Will U.S. troops participate in actual
military operations against our pepole as they did in other places? Will
thee be another Nicole? Will our women and children again be made "objects"
for the U.S. soldiers' rest and recreation? Instead of buying 100
Howitzers at P 780,000.00, can we not buy rice for our people or provide
social services for them?
We, the Good Shepherd Sisters here in Mindanao gathered in Cagayan de
Oro from Feb. 11-14, 2008 for our Regional Assembly say NO to Balikatan
Balance Piston 208.
Enough of Balikatan Military Exercises!
Pursue Peace Talks for a Just and Lasting Peace!
US Troops OUT NOW!
( Signed by 30 Sisters of the Good Shepherd/ CGS Sisters gathered in
Mindanao)
