As tensions with China continue to grow, the United States is boosting its military presence in the Indo-Pacific region, notably in the Philippines and Taiwan.
On February 1, the U.S. announced plans to set up four new military bases in the Philippines under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA). Lt. Gen. Bartolome Vicente Bacarro of the Philippine Army said that bases in Cagayan, Palawan, Zambales, and Isabela are being considered. At present, the U.S. already has access to five Philippine military bases, particularly in Palawan, Pampanga, Nueva Ecija, and several bases in Visayas and Mindanao.
