The Philippine Navy (PN) reminded the public on Monday, Oct. 27, that details of military operations and facilities must remain confidential following an online controversy involving a highly sensitive military project in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu that was posted online by the local government.

The reminder came after Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Maria Cynthia “Cindi” King-Chan faced criticisms when she posted details of the groundbreaking of a missile storage facility on Feb. 21.

At the time, Chan was serving as Lapu-Lapu City’s lone congressional district representative. Aside from her social media post, a press release posted on the Facebook page of the Lapu-Lapu City Information Office noted that the infrastructure project was one of the local government's priority initiatives funded by her. Chan won as Lapu-Lapu City mayor in the general elections last May.

“For operational security, the Philippine Navy does not disclose specific details of its operations or facilities,” the PN told the Manila Bulletin without referencing any names when asked about the issue.

The PN stressed that it does not disclose specific details of its operations or installations to protect national security.

In a separate statement, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) urged caution in sharing sensitive information and reminded officials on the importance of operational security.

"Matters concerning defense facilities and capabilities are handled with the highest regard for operational security and in close coordination with relevant government agencies. Infrastructure developments in military bases are part of the AFP’s routine modernization efforts to strengthen logistics and overall readiness, all aligned with national security policies and strict security protocols," it said.

The military assured that it remains vigilant in safeguarding critical defense assets and installations.

"The AFP is coordinating closely with local officials to ensure that future communications regarding defense initiatives are handled responsibly," it noted.

The missile storage facility is part of the government’s Tatag ng Imprastraktura para sa Kapayapaan at Seguridad (TIKAS) program, a joint initiative of the Department of National Defense (DND) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

The project aims to strengthen the country’s defense infrastructure network.

While Chan has yet to address the issue, she already explained during the groundbreaking that the facility would benefit the region’s security as it would “house valuable military assets” and “enhance the city’s role in supporting national defense infrastructure.” 

The public activity was also attended by personnel of the Lapu-Lapu City-based Naval Forces Central (NAVFORCEN) led by its commander, Commodore Joselito De Guzman, and officials of the local government and DPWH.

While supporters praised Chan for helping fund the project, several stakeholders expressed concern that the social media post publicly revealed the location and nature of a sensitive military site.

As for the Navy, it said that safeguarding its assets and facilities remains a priority.

“We can affirm that the protection of assets, proper storage, and adherence to all established safety, security and accounting protocols remain the Navy’s highest priorities,” it said.

“Rest assured, the Navy remains fully committed to safeguarding our personnel, assets, and national interests,” it added.