The Philippines' defense chief has instructed the military to increase the number of troops stationed on the northernmost islands near Taiwan to strengthen Manila's defense capabilities.

During his recent visit to naval facilities in the remote Batanes islands, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro also called for the development of additional structures, the Philippine navy announced on Tuesday.

"Starting from 2024, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will operate at a higher tempo," Teodoro stated, according to a late Tuesday statement from the Philippine navy.

The Bashi Channel, situated between these islands and Taiwan, is a crucial passage for ships traveling between the western Pacific and the contested South China Sea. Taiwan's defense ministry has reported regular passages of Chinese military ships and aircraft through the channel.

In November, the Philippines and the United States jointly conducted patrols in the waters off the Philippines' northernmost point.

Teodoro emphasized that Batanes is pivotal for the Philippines' northern defense line. He was joined by the AFP and Navy chiefs during his visit.

The Philippine navy hailed Teodoro's visit as a significant moment in the nation's commitment to territorial defense and national security.

According to a report by Reuters in August, discussions were ongoing for the U.S. military to establish a civilian port in Batanes, potentially enhancing American access to strategically important islands facing Taiwan.

In 2023, the Philippines nearly doubled the number of military bases accessible to U.S. forces, including three facing Taiwan. China, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory, has criticized these actions, stating they exacerbate regional tensions.

Batanes was used as a training site during last year's Balikatan joint military exercises, involving over 17,000 Filipino and American troops, marking the largest-ever edition of the annual drills.

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