Wescom conducts semimonthly boat service to Pag-asa Island

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 14, 2023): Wescom conducts semimonthly boat service to Pag-asa Island (By Izza Reynoso)

‘NONE LEFT BEHIND’. Representatives from various government agencies set up the first fuel depot on Pag-asa Island to help fishermen reduce expenses for accessing fuel in this April 2022 photo. More recently, the Western Command started delivering supplies and passengers to the island via ship, ensuring that Filipinos living there are well stocked. (Photo courtesy of Department of Agriculture)

PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan – The Western Command (Wescom) on Friday announced that it has established a regular twice monthly ferry service to deliver much-needed supplies to stationed military personnel and civilians residents of Pag-asa Island.

Vice Adm. Alberto Carlos, Wescom commander, told journalists that since June 21, two supply runs carried out by BRP Mangyan (AC 71) have successfully brought various goods to Filipinos on the island, which lies in contested waters.

"Our regular ferry service to Pag-asa Island is a lifeline of support and solidarity, ensuring that our fellow Filipinos in remote territories have the essential resources they need and reminding them that they are not alone in the vastness of the West Philippine Sea," he said

The BRP Mangyan embarked on its second ferry and logistics run mission departing from Tidepole Pier in Puerto Princesa City loaded with approximately 10 tons of cargo and carrying 12 military and civilian passengers.

"These missions, occurring every 14 days, not only deliver vital supplies but also provide a brief respite to the sailors and crew, who spend 2-3 days on Pag-asa Island before returning to Palawan. This arrangement reinforces logistical support to the island while strengthening the bond between the military and civilian population in this remote outpost," said Carlos.

He maintains that the regular ferry service highlights the Philippines' commitment to assert its sovereignty and ensure the well-being of its citizens in the area despite constant incursions by Chinese maritime militia vessels, which has drawn international condemnation for Beijing.

Meanwhile, Kalayaan Mayor Roberto del Mundo expressed gratitude to the Wescom for said undertaking.

"We are grateful to VAdm Carlos for initiating this project. The regular ferry service to Pag-asa is a tremendous help," Del Mundo said.

Pag-asa Island is situated 508 kilometers from Puerto Princesa and about 2,938 kilometers from the nearest point in China.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1205659