US envoy confirms receiving project proposals from Batanes LGU, but no details yet on civilian port facing Taiwan

Baguio City (CNN Philippines, September 1) — United States Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson disclosed that Batanes Gov. Marilou Cayco proposed several projects for possible US support and consideration.

Speaking to reporters at the post-Independence Day celebration of the US in Baguio late Thursday, Carlson said she met with Cayco a few months ago at the US Embassy in Manila.

"She laid out a list of development projects that might be of interest for USAID (United States Agency for International Development)," Carlson said.

The envoy said that among the proposals includes providing solar lights and streetlights, and construction of a breakwater.

Carlson, however, did not expound on a reported development of a civilian port in Basco, Batanes, which is located in an area facing Taiwan.

"We are looking at a number of things but when it comes to the specific port, that's sort to be determined," the envoy added.

In a report by Reuters, the US military is supposedly in talks with the local government of Batanes for the construction of a port for the unloading of cargo.

Cayco reportedly said that a decision about the port could be made in October. CNN Philippines reached out to the governor but she has yet to respond.

China considers the self-governing island of Taiwan as part of its territory.

Beijing previously warned the Philippines against expanding military cooperation with the US, which may allegedly involve meddling in the Taiwan issue.