The Philippine Air Force (PAF) and the United States Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) recently inaugurated the newly completed Fuel Storage Facility at Brigadier General Benito N. Ebuen Air Base in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, which aims to boost the military’s air operations.
In a statement on Friday, PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo said the turnover of the fuel storage facility strengthens the “enduring partnership” between the Philippine and U.S. air forces.
On 30 January, PACAF Commander General Kevin Schneider and PAF Air Mobility Commander Major General Ramil Oloroso attended the inauguration ceremony for the fuel storage.
The newly constructed fuel storage facility was built by Himalayan Builders and Engineers Pvt. Ltd. and ACE Builders.
It features two above-ground storage tanks, each with a capacity of 75,708 liters.
It also has a modern fuel handling system, a covered parking area for refueling trucks, and a secured perimeter, designed and constructed in compliance with security and safety standards.
The project construction started on 22 June 2022, and was completed on 6 September 2024.
“This project, undertaken under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), will significantly improve the PAF's fuel storage and distribution capabilities, enhancing operational readiness and logistical efficiency,” Castillo said.
She added that the facility will support humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations, strengthen national defense capabilities, and sustain a wide range of PAF flying missions, including airlift, internal security, and territorial defense operations.
“Thereby reinforcing the Air Force’s ability to respond to various operational demands,” she further equipped.
Oloroso emphasized the critical importance of the new facility in bolstering the PAF's ability to carry out its missions effectively.
He also expressed gratitude to PACAF for its continuing support and existing partnership, as well as for the successful completion of an EDCA project “which plays a crucial role in enhancing cooperation in HADR operations.”
He pointed out that such a project is “instrumental in strengthening the country's defense capabilities and promoting regional security.”