US considers establishing ammo facility in Subic Bay for regional logistics

US lawmakers are considering establishing an ammunition manufacturing and storage facility at Subic Bay to address regional logistical needs.

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. welcomed this proposal, emphasizing its potential benefits for employment, technological transfer, and resilience in the Philippines.

The US House Committee on Appropriations directed the Department of Defense, State Department, and International Development Finance Corporation to assess the feasibility of setting up a joint facility.

According to the committee's report dated June 16, such a site would enable better forward-staging of ammunition stockpiles and related materials in Subic Bay.

Secretary Teodoro noted that while any production venture beneficial to the Philippines is welcome, no formal proposal has been received yet.

The facility would be located at the former US naval base in Subic Bay, which was operational until 1991 when the lease expired following a decision by the Philippine Senate.