Manila: The Philippine Navy (PN) is gearing up for the potential conversion of Grande and Chiquita Islands into military reservations as part of a strategic initiative to bolster national security. The islands, located near Subic Bay, are poised for military development following a presidential proclamation that is expected to designate them as military reservations. This development was confirmed by Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, the PN spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, in a recent interaction with reporters.
According to Philippines News Agency, Trinidad emphasized the strategic importance of the islands due to their proximity to Subic Bay, which offers a safe harbor for Navy ships due to its natural layout. The presence of a runway in the Subic Bay area further enhances its strategic value, providing a facility for Philippine aircraft operations. Trinidad highlighted the necessity of establishing a military presence in the Subic area to utilize these advantages.
Trinidad clarified that the move to convert the islands has no connection to the recent arrest of six foreign nationals and two Filipinos involved in illegal activities on Grande Island last March. He noted that these individuals were present on the island prior to discussions about its potential designation as a naval reservation.
Grande Island’s location in Subic Bay offers a strategic vantage point with views of key sea lanes in the West Philippine Sea, including the Scarborough Shoal. The Department of National Defense (DND) has indicated that the illegal activities of the arrested suspects could include espionage and kidnapping linked to offshore gaming operations, with some foreign nationals operating under the guise of private enterprises.
The planned conversion of Grande and Chiquita Islands into military reservations aims to secure the operations of the Subic Special Economic and Freeport Zone, which includes the Riviera Wharf and the Subic Bay International Airport. This move aligns with ongoing efforts by the DND to develop a naval operating base in Subic, reinforcing the Philippines’ strategic presence along the western seaboard.