Department of National Defense chief Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said that the new naval and air force facility to be erected in Balabac, Palawan is designed to enhance the country’s maritime security and air defense capabilities.
Teodoro made the statement during a press conference held at the Tactical Operations Wing West (TOW WEST) in Palawan, revealing that the new facility is designated as a “forward operating base” for the Philippine Air Force.
He also added that new base will stimulate local economic growth by improving infrastructure and attracting investment.
“If we are strong enough local, domestic and foreign investors will have confidence and raise our country’s profile, while earning additional resources for our infrastructure and development,” he explained.
When completed, the project will introduce these new facilities in Balabac within three years, contingent on resolving legal and construction issues.
“We will be a naval facility that will support our activities in the West Philippine Sea because it’s obvious that we need a naval facility on the north of western side of Palawan if our naval assets will be circumvented. So we have a naval presence there but we want to make it a synergized, modern, and capable naval base,” he shared.
The project is part of a broader plan to improve regional maritime security and will also host U.S. troops for joint exercises, fostering greater military collaboration.
