Strategic partnerships are important, President Marcos says, in dealing with a “terribly complicated situation” and “troubled waters.” Along this line, he has approved the expansion of US military access to Philippine facilities.
The move, which is expected to be announced this week, is the latest sign of the rapid advancement in bilateral relations under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
The Philippines and the United States are looking to fully implement the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement through finishing projects and adding more locations in a bid to highlight the importance of the Mutual Defense Treaty.
There are currently five military sites identified under the EDCA: Benito Ebuen Air Base in Cebu, Lumbia Airport in Cagayan de Oro, Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija, Antonio Bautista Air Base in Palawan, and Basa Air Base in Pampanga.
Kamala Harris is the highest-ranking Biden administration official to visit the country, marking a revival of ties after the tensions of the Duterte years.