Politics of Aid in Conflict Areas: Case of Mindanao, Philippines

Abstract

Abstract Politics of Aid in Conflict Areas: Case of Mindanao, Philippines

Erika Henri Recuerdo Laudencia International Area Studies Graduate School of International Studies Seoul National University

The US and Philippines, though allies for some time now, have not had such an easy relationship historically. Since the Philippine-American war broke out and until the American colonization of the Philippines had ended, the two countries had a complicated relationship since then. The US, through their official development assistance, has been helping the Philippines with various peace and security measures to appease the internal conflict with separatist groups. Since the Philippine constitution disallows foreign troops from participating in actual combat on its soil, US has been helping the Philippines military in an advisory and training role. Moreover, The USAID has been implementing projects in these conflict zones in Mindanao, Philippines, especially after the global war on terror. This paper explores the US increasing role in Philippines conflict areas, in both military and non-military interventions.

Keywords: Mindanao, Philippines, Conflict, USAID, Aid Student Number: 2015-25105