The president of the Tagbilaran Association of Northern California said Tuesday he is more concerned about the Philippines’ security than that of the United States amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Arch. Arturo Romanos, speaking in an interview on the Open Forum radio program hosted by ArdyAraneta-Batoy and Gloria LeodivicaAraneta, said the Philippines faces greater exposure to the conflict than the U.S., where he is currently based.
“The Philippines may be more vulnerable,” Romanos said, noting that while he is confident the U.S. would come to the Philippines’ defense if hostilities escalate, some observers have argued that American involvement could make Philippine territory a target for Iranian missile or drone strikes.
Although the Philippines does not host permanent U.S. military installations, it has allowed American forces access to local bases under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, or EDCA.
Romanos said those sites could be at risk, a prospect that has drawn concern among Filipino-Americans.
He added that rising fuel costs have been a more immediate concern for U.S.-based Filipinos.
Gas prices have climbed in the U.S. and the Philippines alike, driven by supply disruptions and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which accounts for roughly 20% of global fuel supply.
Romanos noted that U.S. pump prices are primarily shaped by market forces and supply-side costs.
On a separate front, Romanos said TANOCAL is preparing for its annual Tagbilaran fiesta celebration, set for May 2 — the first Saturday of the month — with activities planned across the U.S.
He expressed confidence that Filipino fiesta traditions would continue to thrive among the diaspora.
Romanos also said he plans to travel to the Philippines in the near future to lead the association in community outreach efforts for Boholanos, including a medical mission with U.S.-based physicians.