January 1989
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The early years of the presidency of Corazon Aquino have been marked by tragedy, bloodshed, demonstrations, unfulfilled expectations, increasing poverty and moves by the traditional ‘elite’ of the Philippines to re-establish their control over large sectors of the economy. The United States-backed Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has continued to be the main force in the country, with the ‘counter-insurgency’ programme used both to legitimise the further arming of fanatical sects and to maintain military support from an American administration determined to keep its bases at Subic Bay and Angeles City. Decisions about the renewal of the US Military Bases Agreement (MBA) from 1991 will have a major effect on the future of the Philippines, and the region.