Philippines plans to use US bases for Taiwan evacuation

Philippine military bases will serve as transit points for evacuating Filipinos from Taiwan if conflict erupts. Philippine Chief of Staff Romeo Brawner stated that in the event of Taiwan Strait instability, the Philippines' priority is to evacuate its approximately 200,000 citizens. Northern Luzon bases, accessible to the US under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), are designated as transit hubs. These bases will facilitate humanitarian aid, initially relocating evacuees to northern Philippines before returning for others. Brawner emphasized the Philippines' geographical advantage for rapid response and potential assistance to other nations.