Why Australia is picking up tab for Philippine military upgrades

Australia has emerged as an alternate defence partner to the Philippines amid uncertainty over American commitment to security in the Indo-Pacific. The country is committing to building eight infrastructure projects at five military bases in Luzon, with Canberra leading construction, use, upgrade, and maintenance of the facilities. The exact locations have not been disclosed, but the cost is still being finalised. This move is part of Australia's broader efforts to bolster regional security, with the Philippines expected to be a frontline in a future regional war. Australian Strategic Policy Institute had previously stated that Canberra has independent reasons to invest in the Philippines' security beyond its importance to US strategy. The projects are set to take place this year.

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