Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — U.S. Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter will visit the Philippines to observe the Balikatan exercises under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).
Carter, who is the second U.S. Defense secretary to visit the country, will arrive on Wednesday (April 13). Secretary Chuck Hagel, who met with President Benigno Aquino III in Malacañang on August 2013, was the first to visit the country.
The Philippines recently agreed to allow the United States to use five military bases for U.S. troops and military supplies under EDCA. This agreement came amid the rising tensions between China, the Philippines and countries claiming territories in the South China Sea.
A senior U.S. defense official said the agreement will enhance the U.S. ability to operate in the region, especially over the disputed South China Sea and will present a strong deterrent message.
Also read: U.S., Philippines announce five military bases for EDCA
Carter’s visit to the Philippines is part of an Asia swing, which includes a visit to India.
Carter will then proceed to the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, where he will attend a gulf leaders’ summit.
