US Eyeing Access to Additional Military Bases in Philippines

Adm. John Aquilino, commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, said they have “made recommendations” to senior leaders about expanding EDCA sites.

Adm. John C. Aquilino discusses U.S.-China strategic competition at Paley Center for Media in New York City on May 23, 2023. Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times

The United States is considering gaining access to more military bases in the Philippines under the countries’ Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), a U.S. commander said on Thursday.

Adm. John Aquilino, commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, said that he and Philippine military chief Romeo Brawner have “made recommendations” to their senior leaders about expanding EDCA sites.