JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii -- Command Chief Master Sgt. Katie McCool, Pacific Air Forces command chief, recently met with key senior enlisted leaders in the Philippines to advance enlisted force development and reinforce the growing military partnership between the United States and the Philippines.
The visit underscores the critical role of enlisted leaders in strengthening the U.S.–Philippines alliance, a partnership built on shared values and a mutual commitment to regional security and stability.
During her visit, McCool held discussions with Command Sgt. Maj. Feliciano Lazo, senior enlisted advisor to the chairman of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and Chief Master Sgt. John Roxas, chief master sergeant of the Philippine Air Force. Discussions focused on strengthening noncommissioned officer development through enhanced collaboration, mentorship, and expanded training opportunities.
“These exchanges are more than just training,” said McCool. “They build the relationships necessary to enhance interoperability and ensure our teams are ready to respond together when called.”
As part of the continued effort to build capacity and interoperability, McCool emphasized the importance of subject matter expert exchanges. These initiatives aim to support the Philippines in strengthening its enlisted training programs through mentorship and shared best practices.
In addition to bilateral engagements, McCool conducted site visits to current and prospective Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement locations across the country. The recent expansion of EDCA, which now includes a total of nine sites, reflects a mutual commitment to bolstering defense cooperation and readiness in the Indo-Pacific.
The U.S. Department of Defense continues to work closely with Philippine counterparts to accelerate modernization efforts at EDCA sites. These upgrades are intended to support joint training, humanitarian assistance and disaster response, and overall regional stability.