Philippine women's group GABRIELA criticizes Balikatan military exercises, demanding expulsion of US troops over safety and rights concerns.

The Philippine women's group GABRIELA has criticized the annual Balikatan military exercises between the Philippines and US, scheduled for next month. Group Secretary-General Clarice Palce demands expulsion of US troops and termination of military agreements, claiming US bases pose a threat to Filipinos' safety and rights. The Balikatan exercises involve 11,000 American and 5,000 Philippine troops, and are accused of disregarding national sovereignty.