Sen. Erwin Tulfo called for a review of the Philippines’ Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) with the United States, warning that the country could become a target amid escalating Middle East conflicts.
He cited attacks on US military facilities in the region and the risk to civilians near Philippine EDCA sites surrounded by commercial areas.
Senate Finance Chair Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian stressed that the Philippines cannot afford to be drawn into war but expressed confidence in national security agencies to safeguard the country’s interests.
Rep. Sarah Jane Elago of Gabriela urged the administration to consider scrapping the pact to prevent collateral damage to Filipinos.
Contingency plans, including potential repatriations through safe zones and additional Senate funding for emergency operations, have been prepared to protect overseas Filipino workers in the Middle East.
Source: PhilNews24 | March 2, 2026
