Guam senator backs governor's U-turn on build-up

Governor Eddie Calvo is opposed to the United States increasing its military presence unless it allows more foreign workers into the US territory.

The number of military personnel on Guam is set to surge from 6000 to 11,000 as troops are relocated from Okinawa, Japan.

Senator Fernando Esteves said the federal government is not listening the people of Guam and the governor had no choice.

"Truth be told, as a colony the military and the federal government can do whatever it is they want without any consent from us. So I think the outcry and making bold statements like that is a good method forward."

Mr Esteves served in the US military for 11 years, but said the armed forces and the people of Guam did not have an equitable relationship.