In a significant move to safeguard the nation’s expansive territories, the Philippine government has allocated PHP3.03 billion to enhance infrastructure within the West Philippine Sea (WPS). This financial commitment was highlighted by Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, the Philippine Navy’s spokesperson for the WPS, who emphasized that the funds are a clear demonstration of the government’s dedication to securing and sustaining its forces under the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC).
The Marcos administration has vowed to protect every inch of Philippine territory, a promise that is being upheld through these substantial investments. Specifically, PHP1.65 billion has been set aside for the development of the Pag-asa Island airport, while PHP300 million will go towards constructing a shelter port on the same island. Additionally, PHP1.08 billion is designated for the second phase of the Lawak Island shelter port.
Pag-asa Island, the largest in the Kalayaan Island Group (KIG) with a land area of 37.2 hectares, and Lawak Island, the fourth largest at 7.93 hectares and located 169 km east of Pag-asa, are key areas of focus for these developments. The KIG, which spans a total of 83.89 hectares, also encompasses other islets such as Likas, Parola, Kota, Patag, and Panata, along with significant maritime features like Ayungin Shoal, Balagtas Reef, and Rizal Shoal.
The Municipality of Kalayaan, established within the KIG under Palawan province by a presidential decree from President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr. in 1978, continues to be a focal point of national defense and development efforts.