The City Government of Davao has opposed the plan to establish foreign military facilities in the city.

This after the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) confirmed that the United States is planning to build a fuel depot in southern Philippines by 2028.

According to Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea of the Philippine Navy, the project is part of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) and the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA).

The said the initiative aims to  strengthen the AFP’s capacity to respond to calamities and enhance  security operations.

AFP clarified that the Philippines will retain control over the facilities, with the partnership intended to support both military and humanitarian functions.

Trinidad downplayed concerns that the Philippines could become a target due to the presence of such facilities.

Based on US media reports, the US Defense Logistics Agency has reportedly opened a solicitation bid for contractors for a fuel storage facility project in Mindanao, particularly in the Davao region near Davao City.

However, the Davao City government maintained that it will oppose any plan to establish foreign military facilities within its jurisdiction.

The city government added that it will not support the project if it will not help lower fuel prices and other essential goods.