Manila: The United States has not yet made a formal proposal regarding its plan to establish an ammunition facility in Subic Bay, Zambales, as confirmed by Malaca±ang on Tuesday. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro explained during a press briefing that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is awaiting a detailed briefing about the US proposal before making any decisions on the matter.

According to Philippines News Agency, Castro emphasized the importance of receiving a comprehensive briefing about the proposed ammunition plant before seeking a response from the President. She stated, "Since there is no formal offer yet regarding this, it would be better, before we ask for our President's response, to lay out to him the details of this." Castro assured that President Marcos prioritizes decisions that benefit the country and its citizens.

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. voiced his support for the proposed ammunition factory and depot during a press briefing at the Makati Shangri-La Hotel on Monday. He highlighted that Washington D.C.'s proposal could enhance Manila's resilience, create jobs, and advance technological transfers.

American lawmakers are considering the potential establishment of ammunition production and storage facilities at Subic Bay due to the "lack of forward-staged ammunition manufacturing" in the Indo-Pacific Region, based on previous reports. The US House Committee on Appropriations has instructed its Department of Defense, State Department, and the International Development Finance Corporation to evaluate the feasibility of such facilities in Subic Bay.