Department of Defense (DND) Sec. Delfin Lorenzana confirmed that the government is starting several infrastructure projects in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
Lorenzana proposed in a budget hearing on Wednesday (Sep. 1), a ₱297 billion budget for the department next year, with some of it allocated for the WPS projects.
The projects include the construction of littoral monitoring stations in the Spratly islands, a lighthouse on Ayungin Shoal, barracks, and a helipad. The Defense chief also eyed the establishment of a fuel depot, following the refurbishment of Pag-asa Island.
In relation to this, the DND also said it plans to amplify the Armed Forces of the Philippines modernization program, which was affected by the more pressing need for the COVID-19 response.
(PTV News)/NGS- jlo
