Teodoro wants more military presence in Batanes

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. has ordered an increase in military presence and facilities in Batanes, according to the Naval Forces Northern Luzon (NFNL).

In a statement released Tuesday night, the NFNL said Teodoro made the directive during his visit to Naval Detachment Mavulis and the ongoing construction of Naval Forward Operating Base Mahatao in Batanes.

“He also called for the development of more structures noting that Batanes is the ‘spearhead of the Philippines as far as the northern baseline is concerned’,” the NFNL said.

“The Secretary also gave instructions for an increased AFP presence in the area,” it added.

According to the naval forces, Teodoro said that the operational tempo of the Armed Forces of the Philippines will be higher as he expressed commitment to enhance territorial defense and security.

Teodoro also called for the boosting of interagency cooperation between the AFP and other agencies to protect the country's fisherfolk.

“The importance of securing borders and establishing a robust presence in strategic areas was also highlighted through a marker unveiling and insightful briefing conducted at Naval Detachment Mavulis,” the NFNL said.

Teodoro was joined by AFP chief General Romeo Brawener Jr. during the visit to Batanes. —Joviland Rita/ VAL, GMA Integrated News