The beaching ramp in the disputed Pag-asa Island was inaugurated on Tuesday in line with the government’s measures to improve the area.
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, together with officials of the AFP including Chief of Staff General Felimon Santos, led the inauguration ceremony of the beaching ramp which is the first phase of the AFP basing support system project.
Lorenzana shared the establishment of the beaching ramp in the island is historical as it would open more opportunities in the area, more so that the movement of materials and products will be faster.
“Because it’s now operational, we can go full blast already. Any project here: mga barracks ng mga sundalo, bahay ng mga tao rito, eskwelahan, electricity, tower (soldiers’ barracks, people’s houses, schools, electricity, tower)… We will improve this. We will put money here” Lorenzana disclosed.
Kalayaan Mayor Roberto del Mundo said after the construction of a port, a runway will follow.
“Dadayuhin na ho kami ng mga turista dito. Magkakaroon na kami ng income ‘yung munisipyo (Tourists will come here, the municipality will have an income),” he added.
The government aims to complete the whole AFP basing support system project in the island within one to two years.
The DND is also considering the placement of beaching ramps on other islands in the Kalayaan Group of Islands.
Meanwhile, Lorenzana stated there was no tension between the Philippines and China in the establishment of the beaching ramp. The area is being monitored by security forces and there is no security threat on posed by other countries.
“The Chinese has said that they will not attack us so safe tayo (we are safe). The purpose of this is just to develop this area into a viable community,” he assured. – Report from Bea Bernardo
