These days the old Clark International Airport on Luzon Island appears quiet, almost dormant. Decrepit military barracks; former symbols of the US imperialism in Philippines are now converted to logistical centers, customs houses and dormitories. The Clark airport itself is nearly idle, with only a few chartered and low cost carriers, including Air Asia, bringing in an insubstantial number of travellers to this part of Luzon located just over 100 kilometers from the national capital – Manila.
However, the tranquility of the place is deceiving and security is everywhere. I drive my rented car past the military policepost; my short haircut deceives the guard who apparently mistakes me for some GI on an outing. I park the vehicle; I casually walk to the gate that separates the airport buildings from the tarmac, and begin photographing. Surveillance system kicks in and on the way back I am stopped and questioned. “I am an American historian”, I explain. “I am writing a book about the glorious days of this distinctive US air force base – the pride of my nation.” The guard does not get my sarcasm.

It all works well this time. I salute, the guard salutes, I shift the gear and get lost, quickly.
In the hotel lobby I find theentire bunch of my compatriots in full combat gear. Men and women, some Caucasian, some of Asian descent, all apparently ready for action. It is clear they are here for Balikatan. I ask them in a casual tone, referring to the joint military exercises between the Philippine and US armed forces.
Members of the air force creware grinningto their teeth.They let me photograph them, but no answers to my questions are forthcoming.
As I leave the hotel, I realize that all of us are grinning at each other and I have no idea why.…….MORE HERE