Philippines plans military reservation on former US base islands
2025-03-23 00:00- The Philippines is considering converting two islands from a former US military base into a military reservation.
- These islands are strategically located to monitor key sea lanes in the South China Sea, which are subject to territorial disputes with China.
- This potential change aims to strengthen national defense and uphold the Philippines' sovereignty amid rising tensions in the region.
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Insights
The Philippine Defense Department announced on March 20, 2025, that it is considering the conversion of Grande and Chiquita islands, formerly part of a United States naval base, into a military reservation. This strategic move aims to enhance the country's military presence in the South China Sea amidst escalating tensions with China, particularly regarding territorial disputes in nearby waters. The two islands, located in Subic Bay, are positioned to provide a clear vantage point over critical sea lanes within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone. The proposal aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s administration policy of asserting Filipino sovereignty in areas contested by Chinese forces. The decision comes shortly after a group of individuals, including a Chinese national, were arrested on Grande Island for serious legal violations connected to suspected espionage activities related to offshore gaming operations, raising concerns about the security of the area. The Philippines has been focusing on strengthening its national defense in the face of ongoing challenges posed by China’s presence in contested waters. The plan to convert these islands into a military reservation is viewed as a crucial step toward securing both the freeport zone and the development of a naval base in close proximity. Since the closure of the US base in 1992, the Subic Bay area has transformed into a freeport zone, with economic activities growing rapidly. However, the conversion of the islands proposes to not only bolster economic security but also provide defense capabilities that have been seen as necessary due to increasing military maneuvers by China in the waters that the Philippines claims as its own. Expansion of military partnerships with the United States has intensified since President Marcos sought deeper engagement with American forces, facilitating joint training exercises that include advanced military technologies. The geopolitical stakes surrounding these islands underscore how small territories can play significant roles in larger international conflicts. Historically, the region has been vital in military strategy and trade, which makes the Philippines’ decision even more important as it navigates its relations with both China and the United States. The conversion of the islands would not only reinforce the Philippines' position in the region but also serve as a clear signal of its intentions to assert its rights over contested maritime territories, aiming for a more robust and modern military framework going forward.
Contexts
The Philippines and the United States have a complex military relationship rooted in historical cooperation and strategic partnership. The Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), which was established in 2014, has laid the groundwork for a strengthened military alliance between the two nations. This agreement facilitates increased access and presence of U.S. forces in the Philippines, culminating in joint training exercises, humanitarian assistance, and disaster response operations. As of March 2025, this partnership is poised to evolve further, responding to the dynamic geopolitical landscape in the Indo-Pacific region. The growing influence of China has necessitated a robust response from both the Philippines and the U.S., highlighting the significance of this bilateral military cooperation. In recent years, the Philippines has experienced heightened tensions in the South China Sea, where territorial disputes with China have become more pronounced. This regional instability has underscored the importance of the U.S.-Philippines alliance in ensuring regional security and maintaining freedom of navigation. Joint military exercises, such as Balikatan, not only strengthen the operational readiness of both forces but also signal to external actors the commitment of the Philippines and the U.S. to mutual defense. The ongoing collaboration serves as a deterrent to aggression and enhances the Philippines' capability to respond effectively to potential threats in its territorial waters. Moreover, the Philippines has been navigating domestic political shifts that could impact U.S. military relations. The administration in power as of 2025 has expressed a commitment to re-evaluating foreign policy objectives, emphasizing a desire for a balanced approach that reinforces both national sovereignty and security alliances. This evolving stance creates opportunities for deeper dialogue on defense strategies, arms transfers, and technology sharing. It is crucial for both nations to engage in transparent discussions to align their strategic interests and address any concerns related to sovereignty and military presence. Looking ahead, the trajectory of U.S.-Philippines military relations will likely be shaped by ongoing dialogues about regional security cooperation, increased investments in military capabilities, and a focus on joint training initiatives that enhance interoperability. Both countries must work collaboratively to address common security challenges while fostering strong ties that reflect mutual respect and understanding. As geopolitical tides shift, the U.S.-Philippines alliance stands as a vital pillar of stability, contributing to a rules-based international order in the face of evolving global dynamics.
