Conversion of CDO airport into US military depot denied

MANILA, Philippines - Malacañang has clarified reports that the Lumbia Airport in Cagayan de Oro would be converted into a US military depot, saying it will be used as storage for equipment needed in rescue operations.

Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said over the weekend that the move was part of the humanitarian assistance and disaster relief program, a vital element of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).

“This facility can help in the swift delivery of services and assistance in times of typhoon, earthquake and other calamities,” Coloma said.

The airport stopped its commercial operation after the Laguindingan Airport in Misamis Oriental was opened in 2013.

The 500-hectare complex is currently home to the 10th Tactical Operations Group of the Philippine Air Force.

Coloma said one of the elements in EDCA that needed focus at this point is the humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, wherein soldiers will serve as first responders in times of disasters.

Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin earlier confirmed the conversion of the Lumbia Airport into a military depot. He said the use of the facility is covered by EDCA.

Meanwhile, the House committee on transportation has endorsed the transfer of the Lumbia Airport to the city government for development.

The committee, chaired by Catanduanes Rep. Cesar Sarmiento, voted to approve House Bill 6388 authored by Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriguez and his brother Maximo of the party-list group Abante Mindanao.

The Rodriguezes said since the Lumbia Airport has been abandoned following the opening of the Laguindingan International Airport in nearby Laguindingan town, “the property can be used as a site of a new city hall and a government center housing national government offices.”

They added that the old airport complex can also be opened to investors under joint venture or lease agreements. – With Jess Diaz