PAF unveils basing support system on Pag-asa Island for better operations

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) on Thursday inaugurated the completed Basing Support System on Pag-asa Island in Palawan in a bid to boost its capability to sustain operations in the West Philippine Sea.

PAF Commanding General Lieutenant General Arthur Cordura led the launching of the completed key basing support infrastructure and facilities.

In a statement, the PAF said these are designed to enhance air operations and strengthen their capability to sustain operations and support strategic infrastructure in the West Philippine Sea.

The project was implemented in close coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Palawan provincial government.

During his visit to Pag-asa Island, Cordura distributed school supplies to students of Pag-asa Elementary School as part of its commitment to community engagement and support for residents.

He added that “conditions which once limited operational tempo have now been addressed, enabling more reliable and continuous mission support.”

“This milestone highlights the PAF’s dedication to improving operational readiness and reinforcing its presence in strategically significant areas, as it remains steadfast in its mission to protect the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity while contributing to regional stability and security,” the PAF added.

Earlier this month, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) activated the Coast Guard District Kalayaan to improve access to essential government services to residents of the Kalayaan local government, such as education, healthcare, and even spiritual services.

The PCG upgraded the existing PCG unit into a full-fledged major district to provide more logistical support across occupied maritime features in the area.

The PCG also plans to deploy dedicated assets, including vessels and aircraft, which will be used for maritime security and search and rescue operations, as well as environmental protection.

Previously in March, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered that local names be given to 131 Kalayaan Island Group (KIG) features.

Executive Order 111 issued on March 26 tasked the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA) to produce and publish updated charts and maps reflecting the official names.

China claims almost the entire South China Sea – a key conduit for more than $3 trillion in annual shipborne trade – including areas also claimed by the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei.

In 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration in the Hague ruled in favor of the Philippines over China’s claims in the South China Sea, but Beijing refused to recognize the arbitral ruling. — JMA, GMA News