The World - News from Nov. 3, 1988

Philippine President Corazon Aquino indicated that U.S. military base rights in the Philippines may expire a year before the date considered final by Washington. She said foreign bases can no longer be allowed unless a pact is ratified by Sept. 16, 1991. The Pentagon says the United States would have until September, 1992, to vacate the bases if a new accord was not reached. The difference stems from varying interpretations of a clause in the current treaty saying it runs until 1991, after which it can be terminated with one year’s notice. Aquino’s statement reflects the view of some Filipinos that the year’s notice can be given before the pact expires.