The Philippine government has announced an additional investment of PHP3.03 billion for the development of infrastructure in the Kalayaan Island Group (KIG), part of the contested Spratly Islands. This funding will enhance the Pag-asa Island airport with PHP1.65 billion and allocate PHP300 million for the Pag-asa shelter port. Additionally, PHP1.08 billion is set aside for the second phase of the Lawak Island shelter port’s construction.
Surigao del Sur 2nd District Representative Johnny Pimentel, who previously led the House Committee on Strategic Intelligence, confirmed that these projects are detailed in the 2025 General Appropriations Law. This new funding adds to the PHP2.3 billion already allocated in 2024 for the Pag-asa airport and Lawak shelter port.
Pimentel, a proponent of transforming Pag-asa into a recreational fishing and tourism hub, also supports a bill proposing PHP5 billion for new naval bases in the West Philippine Sea to protect the region’s oil and gas resources.
Located 508 kilometers northwest of Puerto Princesa City, Pag-asa is the largest island in the KIG, covering 37.2 hectares. Lawak, the fourth largest at 7.93 hectares, is situated 169 kilometers east of Pag-asa. The KIG encompasses a total of 83.89 hectares, including smaller islets like Likas, Parola, Kota, Patag, and Panata, as well as Ayungin Shoal, Balagtas Reef, and Rizal Shoal.
The Municipality of Kalayaan, established in the KIG under Palawan province by a presidential decree from President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr. in 1978, continues to be a focal point for development and strategic interests in the region.