MANILA, July 16 (PNA) — There is nothing new with reports claiming that the Philippines will station fighter jets and frigates at Subic Bay, Zambales, said Defense spokesman Dr. Peter Paul Galvez on Thursday.
He added that the plan was first discussed in 2013 and it is part of the ongoing military upgrade.
Aside from this, the proposal was eyed with the possible transfer of all air units in Sangley Point, Cavite and reduction of military air traffic in Clark Air Force Base, Pampanga due to commercial use and decongestion of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Pasay.
With these moves, it is only logical for the government to look at the possible use of the Subic Bay air facilities for the basing of fighter jets and other aircraft and adjacent deepwater port for naval assets, he added.
Galvez said the Subic air facilities are well suited for the increasing capabilities of the Philippine Air Force as it already possess a world-class runway which no longer necessitates the construction of an expensive airport.
He said that basing newly-acquired air assets and naval craft in Subic Bay is a strategic one it can cover the West Philippine Sea. (PNA)