US Pacific Air Force chief to visit select EDCA sites in Phl

The United States Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) commander will visit some Enhanced Development Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites during his three-day visit to the Philippines.

Philippine Air Force (PAF) spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo said PACAF commander Gen. Kevin Schneider and his staff will visit the Cesar Basa Air Base, Benito Ebuen Air Base in Cebu, and Lumbia Airport in Cagayan de Oro City.

Castillo said the visit was meant to strengthen the bilateral relations and areas of cooperation of both air forces.

“Because EDCA sites are really important for the Philippines and the United States, as well,” she added.

The government earlier named four locations as additional EDCA sites, including newly agreed-upon locations of EDCA facilities: 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.

Schneider's visit to the Philippines follows the recent stoppage of the US' existing and new foreign assistance worldwide.

The US previously allocated over $82 million for infrastructure investments at the existing five sites under the EDCA.

Military spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla, meanwhile, said all military engagements with their US counterparts will continue.

“For the side of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, we have long-standing partnerships with the US and we continue with our partnership programs moving forward,” Padilla said.

“At this point, sir, in terms of our preparations, it's still business as usual,” she added.