Palace names 4 new EDCA sites

Proposed additional EDCA locations released on April 3, 2023. (Photo courtesy of Presidential Communications Office)

By Christine Fabro

Malacañang on Monday, April 4, announced four more “suitable and mutually beneficial” locations for the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) in the country.

The four locations inspected and assessed by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) include the Naval Base Camilo Osias in Sta. Ana, Cagayan; Lal-lo Airport in Lal-lo, Cagayan; Camp Melchor Dela Cruz in Gamu, Isabela; and Balabac Island in Palawan.

In a release, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said the additional sites are “seen to boost the disaster response of the country.”

These locations will also be used for humanitarian and relief operations during emergencies and natural disasters.

According to PCO, while the four extra sites will be scattered across the country, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. stressed that these sites will defend the eastern coast, taking into consideration the Philippines’ continental shelf on Luzon’s eastern side.

Department of National Defense (DND) Spokesperson Arsenio Andolong earlier said that these EDCA sites will not become American military bases, but will also be used as storage and warehouse facilities for military logistics. –ag 

Popular

‘Best is yet to come’: PBBM rallies Alex Eala after WTA finals debut

By Darryl John Esguerra | Philippine News Agency On Sunday, June 29, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. offered words of encouragement to tennis sensation Alex...

DOH opens online mental health support for Filipinos in Israel

By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora | Philippine News Agency The Department of Health (DOH) is extending psychosocial support to overseas Filipinos in Israel affected by...

PBBM reminds AETC to ensure quality training for future airmen

By Brian Campued President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. ordered the Air Education and Training Command (AETC) of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) to ensure that...

DOJ ‘indirectly’ cooperating with ICC to help drug war witnesses — Palace

By Brian Campued The Department of Justice (DOJ) is focused on helping the witnesses who wish to testify against former President Rodrigo Duterte to give...