In a recent development, the US has transferred significant quantities of fuel from a military base in Hawaii to storage facilities throughout Southeast Asia. This move has raised concerns among some Philippine senators about the potential for a US-China conflict over Taiwan.
Kanishka Gangopadhyay, a spokesperson for the US Embassy in Manila, confirmed the transfer of fuel from a naval base in Hawaii to a commercial site in Subic Bay, Philippines. The shipment is part of multiple deliveries of fuel, although the exact quantity remains undisclosed.
The US Embassy assured that the transfer was conducted in coordination with Philippine authorities.
Philippine Senator Imee Marcos, chair of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations and sister of President Bongbong Marcos, has criticized the lack of transparency surrounding the shipment. She highlighted that the Filipino public deserves to be informed about such significant movements, particularly as they relate to the 39 million gallons of fuel involved.
Marcos also questioned the storage plans for this large fuel quantity, considering that Subic Bay is not included under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement between the Philippines and the US.
The timing of the US fuel movement is notable, coinciding with Taiwan’s presidential election
The election has brought to the fore discussions about Taiwanese independence, a topic that has been met with stern warnings from Beijing. China, asserting its sovereignty over Taiwan, has expressed its intent for peaceful reunification but has not ruled out military action should Taiwan pursue formal independence.
President Xi Jinping of China reiterated his commitment to reunification in his New Year address.
This development in US-Philippines relations and its potential implications for the Taiwan Strait situation reflect the ongoing tension between Washington and Beijing.
The US, while officially adhering to the ’One-China’ policy, has consistently supported the Taiwanese government and has pledged to protect the island in the event of a conflict with China. This recent fuel transfer could be seen as part of broader strategic preparations by the US amid these escalating tensions.