The Armed Forces of the Philippines has welcomed the United States military's reported plan to establish a new refueling depot in Mindanao by 2028. Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad said the facility would enhance national operations rather than attract attacks. The AFP remains committed to defending sovereignty amid challenges in the West Philippine Sea.
MANILA, Philippines — Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, Philippine Navy spokesman for the West Philippine Sea, stated that the Armed Forces of the Philippines sees no concerns with the US plan, as it falls under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) and Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA). "Any plans for storage of fuel facilities in the country are covered by EDCA... They are designed to support our response capability for HADR, maritime security and support and sustain our forces deployed, not only in the West Philippine Sea, but even in the southern border," he explained.
He added that the facilities would remain under Philippine control. "The presence of these facilities serves as a deterrence. The greater risk is to have no deterrence at all," Trinidad said, assuring that Pentagon details are not yet finalized.
Meanwhile, AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. reiterated the military's commitment to protecting sovereignty and maritime rights amid Chinese incursions in the West Philippine Sea. At a Maritime Security Symposium in Camp Aguinaldo, he said, "From the perspective of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, maritime security is both a national duty and a shared responsibility." The AFP will act with professionalism and purpose to uphold regional stability.
