Malacañang has clarified reports that the Lumbia Airport in Cagayan de Oro would be converted into a US military depot, saying it will be used as storage for equipment needed in rescue operations.
Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said over the weekend that the move was part of the humanitarian assistance and disaster relief program, a vital element of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).
“This facility can help in the swift delivery of services and assistance in times of typhoon, earthquake and other calamities,” Coloma said.
The airport stopped its commercial operation after the Laguindingan Airport in Misamis Oriental was opened in 2013.
The 500-hectare complex is currently home to the 10th Tactical Operations Group of the Philippine Air Force.
Coloma said one of the elements in EDCA that needed focus at this point is the humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, wherein soldiers will serve as first responders in times of disasters.
During the speech of Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin on Wednesday he said that:
Structures would be put up inside the old Lumbia Airport in Northern Mindanao to support plans by the US Army to establish a resupply and warehouse facility for its forces in the Philippines.
Meanwhile, the House committee on transportation has endorsed the transfer of the Lumbia Airport to the city government for development.