Abstract
In 1898, during the Spanish–American War, the Philippines declared independence from Spain. The United States did not acknowledge this declaration, suppressed an insurrection, and imposed colonial rule until 1946. Before and after World War II, the United States maintained a singular military presence in the Philippines, concentrated in Subic Bay. In the early 1990s, the United States closed the military base. Shortly thereafter, the Subic Bay Freeport Zone was established. What should we make of this history? Did Philippine leaders and citizens welcome the US military and benefit from the jobs and commerce? Were Philippine people forced to endure an ongoing imperial presence despite open and ongoing resistance? Did US soldiers and sailors violate laws and customs with impunity? Did the military base provide stable and well-paying jobs, with unmatched opportunities for career advancement? These questions can be posed in more personal and intimate terms. Did Philippine workers resent US employers? Did US military personnel live out sexual fantasies at the expense of Filipinos? Did US soldiers fall in love with and build enduring families with Filipino lovers? What became of the children left behind by US military personnel?
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