US says EDCA site upgrades now in place

The United States said upgrades at various Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites in the Philippines have been completed or substantially advanced, signaling further expansion of defense cooperation between the two allies.

US Department of War Undersecretary for Policy Elbridge Colby said last week that Washington has made significant progress in strengthening its defense relationship with Manila and expects additional developments at the EDCA facilities.

“We are proud to say that there has been progress with the EDCA sites, and we anticipate more,” Colby said during an online press briefing.

He declined to provide specific details on the improvements, citing security considerations.

The EDCA, signed in 2014, allows Filipino and American forces to conduct joint training and enables US troops to construct facilities and pre-position equipment and supplies at selected Philippine military locations.

There are currently nine EDCA sites across the country: Basa Air Base in Floridablanca, Pampanga; Fort Magsaysay Military Reservation in Nueva Ecija; Lumbia Airport in Cagayan de Oro; Antonio Bautista Air Base in Puerto Princesa, Palawan; Benito Ebuen Air Base in Cebu; Naval Base Camilo Osias and Lal-lo Airport in Cagayan; Camp Melchor Dela Cruz in Gamu, Isabela; and Balabac Island in Palawan.

Colby said the United States is working closely with the Philippines as Manila strengthens its ability to protect national sovereignty.

He cited discussions with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. as part of the continuing efforts to deepen bilateral defense cooperation.

Colby described the Philippines as a “model ally,” saying Manila has taken a productive and collaborative approach to strengthening the defense relationship.

The US official said the progress achieved over the past 18 months is expected to be followed by further cooperation, although he provided no details on the specific projects or improvements planned for the EDCA sites.

The expanded facilities are expected to support joint activities and enhance the ability of both countries to respond to security and other operational requirements while maintaining the Philippines’ role as host nation.