CAMP AQUINO, Tarlac City – Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. and Armed Forces chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., with Northen Luzon Command head Lt. Gen. Fernyl Buca, inspected critical facilities in Batanes province on Tuesday, February 6.

DEFENSE Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. leads a visit to Batanes to inspect critical facilities on Tuesday, February 6. (Military photo)
The comprehensive site visit encompassed crucial installations, including Naval Detachment (ND) Basco, ND Mavulis, Itbayat Airport, and the Multi-Agency Facility (MAF) in Mahatao.
The visit aims to ensure the optimal functionality and readiness of these strategic sites crucial to the nation's defense.
Vice Admiral Toribio D. Adaci Jr., Navy Flag- Officer-in-Command, accompanied Teodoro and other officials during the inspection.
They also visited the Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (CEZA) in Port Irene, Santa Ana, Cagayan, emphasizing the government's holistic approach to securing both maritime and economic interests.
“This inspection reinforces our commitment to maintaining defense facilities, ensuring our forces are prepared for any eventuality, and securing the sovereignty of our nation," Buca noted.