The Latest Breaking News from EDCA

How an impasse in the South China Sea drove the Philippines, US closer

American troops are returning to the Philippines, in a policy that some fear may invite conflict with China.

Al Jazeera · Dec 30, 2023

Philippines' military chief visits remote islands near disputed Spratlys

When the Philippine military chief addressed a small contingent of navy officers on a remote island in Palawan province near the disputed Spratly archipelago in the South China Sea, he reminded them their mission was to "ensure there is peace".

Reuters · May 18, 2023

Marcos says Philippines bases could be 'useful' if Taiwan attacked

Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr said on Thursday that granting U.S. access to Philippine military bases was a defensive step that would be "useful" if China attacked Taiwan.

Reuters · May 5, 2023

US, Philippines to announce new sites for U.S. military as soon as possible - U.S. official

The United States and Philippines will announce new sites as soon as possible for an expanded Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), which gives the Western power access to military bases in the Southeast Asian country.

Reuters · Mar 20, 2023

The tiny Philippine island on the frontline of the US-China battle for supremacy

Years ago, Fuga Island was set to host a Chinese ‘smart city’. Now it may become home to American troops as the US seeks to protect Taiwan and the region

The Guardian - AU · Mar 17, 2023

US troop expansion near Taiwan revives old debate in Philippines

It’s been more than three decades since the Philippines ordered U.S. troops to withdraw from their sprawling military bases in the country, ending an era that hearkened back to America’s colonial days.

Tribune News Service · Mar 4, 2023

Lawmakers eye opportunities as Philippines base access expands

WASHINGTON — Lawmakers say the Pentagon’s newly unlocked access to a handful of additional bases in the Philippines will boost the United States’ ability to deter Chinese aggression while deepening collaboration with a key ally in the region.

Tribune News Service · Feb 17, 2023

Philippines sides with US amid rising regional tensions between Beijing and Washington

The US-China rivalry in east Asia has taken an interesting turn after the recent visit of US defense secretary, Lloyd Austin, to the Philippines. Austin’s trip ended in an expanded deal, the enhanced defense cooperation agreement (EDCA).

The Conversation · Feb 17, 2023

China warns the US is 'using' Asian countries as Washington seals crucial military deal with the Philippines

China warns countries in Asia to be vigilant about the US "using" them, after American forces secured access to a further four military bases in the Philippines.

ABC News · Feb 3, 2023

Explainer-Why U.S. seeks closer security cooperation with the Philippines

The Philippines this week granted the United States greater access to its military bases, amid mounting concern over China's intentions toward self-ruled Taiwan and Beijing's extensive claims in the disputed South China Sea.

Reuters · Feb 2, 2023