Senate Allocates Budget for Enhancing Facilities in the West Philippine Sea
The Senate is taking action to provide a budget for the establishment of new facilities at the Ayungin Shoal and Kalayaan Island in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). According to Sen. Francis Joseph “Chiz” Escudero, the allocation of funds to enhance the country’s frontline posts in the WPS is a “done deal” in the Senate. This news comes as the Senate prepares to begin debates on the 2024 national budget this week.
Enhancing Facilities for the Welfare of Our Soldiers
Escudero assured that his fellow senators are unanimous in allocating funds to build structures that are “meant not for aggression but for the welfare of our soldiers stationed there.” He emphasized that the WPS is a “hot spot” and that it is impossible to ignore what is happening there. The funds will be used to improve the Rancudo Airfield and the Liwanag Naval Station on the island. Additionally, Escudero will push for an increase in the infrastructure budget for the 37-hectare Kalayaan Island, which hosts air and naval stations.
Questioning the Executive Department’s Allocation
Escudero expressed his concern over the executive department’s allocation of only P80 million in the 2024 national budget for two small projects on Kalayaan Island. He believes that they should back up their rhetoric with resources, stating that “anger is good but appropriations are better.”
Proposed Projects and Recommendations
Escudero specifically referred to the proposed two-story military barracks and an igloo-type ammunition storage, each costing P40 million and lodged under the budget of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). In August, Escudero also proposed the construction of a floating wharf at Ayungin Shoal, which would serve as a refuge for vessels during bad weather. He recommended an initial budget of P100 million for the project. Other senators, such as Sen. Jose “Jinggoy” Estrada and Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri, have expressed support for these projects.
House Special Committee Holds Hearing on Ramming Incident
In related news, the House Special Committee on the West Philippine Sea recently held a hearing on the collision between China Coast Guard vessels and a vessel contracted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines. The committee aims to address the challenges in the West Philippine Sea and work towards a peaceful and cooperative future. The frequent incidents involving Chinese vessels in the WPS are a cause for serious concern.
Efforts to Protect Philippine Vessels
During the hearing, resource persons from the National Task Force on the West Philippine Sea provided details about the ramming incident. Defense Undersecretary for Strategic Assessment and Planning Ignacio Madriaga mentioned that the government has plans to further protect Philippine vessels from Chinese vessels in subsequent resupply missions. The National Task Force is continuously planning and conducting operations to safeguard the country’s sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea. Jay Tristan Tarriela expressed concern about the decision of the House of Representatives to realign the confidential funds under the proposed 2024 general appropriations bill. He stated that this decision will have a tremendous impact on security agencies’ capability to defend the country’s interests in the West Philippine Sea.
Conclusion
The Senate’s resolute step towards fortifying facilities in the West Philippine Sea is a crucial stride in safeguarding national interests and ensuring the well-being of our stationed soldiers. Sen. Escudero’s assurance of unanimous support for these measures signifies a unified understanding of the gravity of the situation in this strategic region. However, the expressed concern over the executive department’s seemingly modest allocation underscores a crucial debate on matching rhetoric with substantial resources. As the House Special Committee delves into recent incidents, the emphasis on peaceful resolutions and proactive protection of Philippine vessels reveals a dedicated commitment to upholding sovereignty in the face of challenges. The deliberations and decisions made in these critical times will undeniably shape the future dynamics of the West Philippine Sea.
Photo: Leonardo.ai
