The Philippines is expected to work on dozens of projects this year under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) with the United States. There are several projects underway to upgrade military bases, such as airstrip repairs at Naval Base Camilo Osias and construction of a fuel storage facility and command center at Lal-Lo Airport, both in Cagayan province. The Philippines and the U.S. identified five bases for the EDCA initiative in 2014, adding another four bases in 2023. In response, China has expressed opposition to the base locations. The U.S. aims to counter China’s ownership assertions over parts of the South China Sea by expanding military presence in the region.
The U.S. government spent $56.8 million on the initial five EDCA sites from 2014 to 2023, completing 14 projects, but according to Col. Medel Aguilar, the U.S. provided nearly $82 million for 21 projects from 2014 to 2022. Indo-Pacific Command estimates 34 construction projects will begin this fiscal year, including building a port in Batanes province facing the Bashi Channel. However, local opposition has been noted, with provincial Governor Manuel Mamba openly opposing live-fire exercises and concerns about war breaking out in the region.
The EDCA projects should not only focus on military needs but also prepare for an influx of refugees if a war breaks out in the region, according to local foreign affairs expert Julio Amador III. Furthermore, he emphasizes the need for the U.S. to reassess its focus.
