Zarate opposes Edca site in Surigao, citing concerns over Philippine sovereignty

Former Rep. Carlos Zarate has opposed the establishment of an Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (Edca) site in Surigao del Norte, arguing it would undermine Philippine sovereignty. His comments follow Rep. Robert Ace Barbers' call for the site due to security concerns. Zarate emphasized that foreign military presence could escalate regional tensions and harm local communities. He suggested enhancing the Philippine Coast Guard and military surveillance instead of relying on foreign bases for security. Barbers reiterated the need for an Edca site after the recovery of a suspected Chinese submarine drone. He expressed concerns about potential foreign interest in local resources, particularly deuterium, but Zarate maintained that militarization is not the solution to the region's vulnerabilities.