No regrets over decision to back US on Iraq Manila

The Philippine government did not regret its decision to support the United States' occupation of Iraq, Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo said in a recent gathering of foreign journalists in Manila.

"No, we have no regrets because that was a political and moral position. We wanted to pursue the war on terror and we felt ousted Iraqi President Saddam Hussain represented that," Romulo said at the Manila Overseas Press Club's "Diplomatic Night" on Saturday.

The Philippines' all-out support for the US on its decision to use military force against Saddam, however, was said to have been cut when the Arroyo administration withdrew the country's humanitarian contingent from Iraq to save Angelo dela Cruz, a Filipino truck driver held hostage by Iraqi militants in July.

Romulo admitted the US was "hurt" with the Philippines' decision but Secretary of State Colin Powell himself said the two countries should remain allies despite disagreements.

He said Powell called to congratulate him for his appointment as foreign affairs secretary and conveyed the US intention to continue its alliance with the Philippines. "The bond of friendship goes back a long way and also in the war against terrorism, we need each other as we need all the other countries in the free world," he said.

Romulo said countries should always band together against terrorism because it was an attack against humanity and civilisation and not just particular countries. However, he pointed out national interest should still be the paramount consideration in foreign relations.

"As long as we pursue our national interest that to me is the best description of an independent foreign policy," Romulo said.

Romulo also expressed confidence that there would no "slow down" in assistance or retaliatory acts from the US because of the troop pullout. "They should not and cannot afford to overlook and bypass the Philippines because of its strategic position," Romulo said.

"Of course they were hurt. Even the best marriage has some problems... once in a while but the marriage continues and even becomes stronger," he added. Romulo reiterated the ban on deployment of Filipino workers to Iraq will remain until their safety is fully assured.