” No problem” with Balikatan cancellation: Lorenzana

March 28, 2020

With the Philippine government focusing on the public health emergency on the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19), Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said Saturday the Philippines has "no problem" with the cancellation of annual Balikatan Exercise set May 2-15.
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"As I said, we had six months to do the major exercises but we gave them (the US) the decision to go ahead or not," he said.
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"However, events were overtaken by COVID19, and since foreigners are banned from coming, then the exercises are cancelled," he added.
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Lorenzana is on self-quarantine after he had contact with General Filemon Santos Jr., Armed Forces of the Philippines chief of staff. Santos was confirmed positive for the COVID-19, said Lorenzana on Friday.
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It can be recalled that the cancellation was first announced by the US. Indo-Pacific Command in compliance with travel restrictions implemented by both countries to contain the spread of COVID19.
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According to Admiral Phil Davidson, US Indo-Pacific Command, the cancellation was made for the safety of both countries.
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“In light of the extraordinary circumstances surrounding COVID-19 pandemic and in the best interest of the health and safety of both countries’ forces, it is prudent to cancel Balikatan 2020,” Davidson said.
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“We remain deeply committed to our longstanding Alliance and friendship," he added. <strong>Robina Asido/DMS</strong>