The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will assist in ensuring the safe passage of a civilian mission to Pag-asa Island. This initiative, led by the Atin Ito Coalition, aims to deliver essential supplies to local fishing communities.
AFP spokesperson Rear Adm. Roy Vincent Trinidad announced the support on Friday, highlighting the mission's importance in providing fuel and food to Filipino fisherfolk.
Running from April 30 to May 5, the mission occurs amid ongoing tensions in the West Philippine Sea, where Philippine vessels have frequently encountered Chinese ships.
Mission Details
The 'Balik Pag-asa' mission marks the fourth of its kind organized by the Atin Ito Coalition. Trinidad stated that the AFP would provide maritime domain awareness and coordination without disclosing specific deployment plans.
While this is a civilian-led endeavor, we provide our full support through maritime domain awareness and coordination to ensure a safe passage.
Rear Adm. Roy Vincent Trinidad
Trinidad reaffirmed the AFP's commitment to protecting Philippine sovereignty and ensuring the safety of its citizens. He emphasized that the West Philippine Sea is a vital part of the nation.
Pag-asa Island, located about 480 kilometers west of Palawan, is the largest Philippine-occupied feature in the Kalayaan Island Group. It serves as the administrative center for the Kalayaan municipality and is home to over 500 residents.
The Atin Ito Coalition has previously conducted three successful missions to the area, mobilizing volunteers and donations to support local communities in contested waters.