Filipino soldiers endure loneliness in guarding Pag-asa Island

Filipino soldiers stationed in Pag-asa Island face the tough task of keeping the government's presence in the contested territory, which is part of the Philippines' exclusive economic zone.  However, one of the biggest battles  they endure in the remote island is being away from their families.

According to a "24 Oras" report by Joseph Morong, the names of the soldiers who have completed their tour of duty are etched in various parts of the island with the message "defend what's ours."

One of the soldiers is Sergeant Ryan Esteban, who hails from a family of seafarers and has three children. He was first assigned to the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal in 2013 for seven months.

“Noong time na nadeploy ako, nagkataon sir na buntis din si misis, malapit nang manganak. Kalaban mo lang sarili, lungkot pero overcome naman,” he shared.

Night and day, huge ships belonging to China can be seen around the island.

Despite the tensed situation, the soldiers try to live a normal life by playing basketball, or getting a haircut.

Joint Task Force unit commander Lieutenant Romel Dionela of the Philippine Navy said the soldiers stationed in the area hold a "sensitive post."

"This is the West Philippine Sea, I can say this is a sensitive post. We are providing security for national sovereignty. Hindi lang dito sa Pag-asa kundi other Philippine-held features," he said.

Armed Forces of the Philippines chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. earlier said the country must have "effective presence" in the territories it occupies.

Esteban said he hopes his three children can follow his footsteps of becoming soldiers for the country.

"Maglingkod din sana. Napakasarap sir sa pakiramdam na ambag ka sa bayan natin," he said. —Jiselle Anne Casucian/LDF, GMA Integrated News