Robin Padilla wants development projects for Pag-asa Island residents

Senator Robin Padilla said there was a need for development projects for residents of Pag-asa Island in the West Philippine Sea so they would be encouraged to stay on the island.

"Kailangan ma-develop natin ang Pag-asa Island, para pag na-develop natin ito, ang mga civilian nandito talaga. Huwag na kayong umalis. Imbes na pakaunti kayo kailangan dumami kayo,” Padilla told residents of Palawan’s Pag-asa Island, which he visited last Friday.

(We need to develop Pag-asa Island so that the civilians will stay here. Don't leave. Instead of getting fewer, the number of people needs to increase.)

Padilla also hoped that the island would become a fishing hub.

“Sana ang mga proyekto ng ating kaibigan si Dick Penson gawing fishing hub ito, ang lugar na ito magiging pugad ng mangingisda,” he added.

(I hope projects like that of Dick Penson to turn the island into a fishing hub will take place.)

Fishers in Pag-asa Island were reportedly anxious about sailing farther out to sea as Chinese vessels could block their boats.

They said there was abundant fish around three sand bars near Pag-asa Island.

The Philippines filed several diplomatic protests against China due to the swarming of Chinese fishing vessels in the country’s maritime waters, including the Pag-asa Island. — DVM, GMA Integrated News