MANILA, Philippines (The Adobo Chronicles® ) – For Barack Obama and NoyNoy Aquino, 2016 marks the end of their respective terms as president, and both are reportedly engaged in secret talks that could define their greatest legacy as heads of state. What’s at stake? Subic Bay, once America’s largest and most strategic naval base located in Olongapo City in the Philippines.

Almost a quarter of a century ago, Philippine lawmakers closed Subic Naval Base and sent the Americans packing amid rising nationalistic and anti-colonial sentiments among the Filipinos.

Now, the U.S. wants to go back to Subic, realizing its importance to maintaining American military supremacy in the region. Rising tensions over territorial claims by China, the Philippines and other Southeast Asian countries have prompted the United States to be on red alert in the South China Sea. But without a military stronghold in the area, the U.S. seems to have tipped the balance of power in  China’s favor.

The secret talks have but one overarching goal: return Subic Bay to the U.S.

America’s demand? It wants to occupy the sprawling former naval base —  permanently.

Aquino’s response? Sure, on the condition that the Philippines is named  America’s 51st state.

And what’s in it for Aquino? He’s termed out and cannnot run for reelection. But he has enjoyed being head of state and wants to continue in this privileged position. So he wants to be appointed governor of the 51st state. In exchange for Subic.

As for Obama, he is seriously reconsidering moving the site of the Obama Presidential Library from Chicago to Subic Bay.

Stay tuned.