MANILA — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri delivered a strong message to China on Thursday (16 May 2024), demanding the immediate withdrawal of any Chinese presence from Pag-asa Island, asserting that it belongs to the Philippines.
Zubiri, accompanied by Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva and Senator JV Ejercito, visited the island to erect a three-story barracks for Philippine Navy (PN) personnel and a health unit. They were joined by Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., who arrived on an Air Force plane.
“If they are listening, this is the Republic of the Philippines territory. This is not yours,” Zubiri declared during the groundbreaking ceremony.
During their visit, a China Coast Guard vessel and at least 20 Chinese maritime militia vessels were observed near Pag-asa Island.
“This is ours even before [Ferdinand] Magellan [discovered the Philippines]. So, get out,” Zubiri stated, addressing the Chinese presence.
Enhancing Infrastructure for Security
Zubiri urged the Armed Forces of the Philippines to submit their “wish list” for further infrastructure improvements to benefit both the military and civilian population on the island.
He emphasized that constructing military facilities on Pag-asa Island would bolster the presence of the PN in the West Philippine Sea and deter illegal Chinese incursions.
“Our investment in infrastructure on Pag-asa Island is our investment in our security in the West Philippine Sea,” Zubiri said in his speech.
Continued Development
The senator highlighted the allocation of P30 million for the Super Rural Health Unit and P20 million for the Navy barracks in the 2024 national budget. Additionally, he secured P2.5 million for a disaster response and rescue vehicle for the municipality.
“This is just the start. We will continue to strengthen our defense posture here in Kalayaan and support the development of the municipality as a thriving community and an ecotourism destination,” Zubiri added.
Safety and Preparedness
Defense Secretary Teodoro reassured the residents, numbering under 200, of their safety despite the ongoing Chinese presence. He noted that no rational nation would attack civilians.
Teodoro also mentioned that contingency protocols are in place to evacuate residents if necessary.
“The West Philippine Sea is the hope of the Philippines. We cannot abandon it. We need to fight for it. We need to inhabit it to make it sustainable,” Teodoro emphasized.
Legislative Support
On the same day, House Speaker Martin Romualdez requested the Philippine Coast Guard to submit a comprehensive modernization plan to the House of Representatives. This plan aims to enhance the Coast Guard’s capabilities in patrolling and safeguarding Philippine territories in the West Philippine Sea.
“Our national security and sovereignty are paramount,” Romualdez stated, underscoring the need for a robust defense strategy.
(el Amigo/MNM)
