Philippine News Agency
New EDCA sites aim to protect entire PH, Galvez assures senators
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian questioned the strategic advantage of the new Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (Edca) sites, but noted their potential benefits for disaster preparedness, maritime security, and counterterrorism.
Gatchalian raised the issue during a Senate inquiry into the four newly identified Edca locations.
The new Edca sites are located in the Bicol Region and the country's eastern seaboard.
Senior Undersecretary of Defense Carlito Galvez Jr. stated that the Philippines' vulnerabilities are primarily on its northeastern side, particularly concerning maritime security and disaster response.
Galvez explained that the sites were chosen due to the country's maritime security needs in areas like Benham Rise and the West Philippine Sea, as well as the isolation experienced in Cagayan and Isabela during past typhoons.
The decision included designating three sites in the north and one in the southeastern part of the country, Balabac.
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