The International League of Peoples’ Struggle (ILPS) Philippines has strongly denounced the presence of American soldiers at Lumbia Airbase in Cagayan de Oro, warning that their deployment heightens risks to local communities even in the absence of direct conflict in the Middle East.
Arnold Padilla of ILPS emphasized that foreign military presence in the Philippines carries a troubling history of abuses, including cases of rape and killings of civilians.
He cited the high-profile cases of “Nicole” and Jennifer Laude, as well as the displacement and livelihood disruptions experienced by fisherfolk and Aeta communities in Central Luzon.
According to ILPS, the arrival of US troops not only raises security concerns but also intensifies social tensions amid ongoing global crises.
The group urged the Philippine government to reassess its policies on foreign military deployment, stressing that continued reliance on US forces undermines peace and endangers the welfare of local communities.
ILPS called on authorities to prioritize the safety and dignity of the Filipino people, warning against policies that allow foreign troops to operate freely within the country.
