(MANILA BULLETIN)

The House of Representatives is eyeing the allocation of at least P3 billion for the planned development projects on Pag-asa Island in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). 

This was bared by House Speaker Martin Romualdez Thursday night, Oct. 5. That same morning, Romualdez led a small group of congressmen in a visit to Pag-asa as a way to get a feel for what locals need. 

Accompanying the solons were Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Romeo Brawner Jr. 

“Well initially, just for the airport and the reclamation here, we’re looking at a budget of at least P3 billion for the airport reclamation extension, which coincides with the naval port and fishing sanctuary [for fishermen],” Romualdez, leader of 300-plus strong House of Representatives, told reporters in an interview. 

Asked whether Pag-asa would get a share from the billions worth of confidential and intelligence funds (CIF) that the House intends to realign, he said, “Yes. Well, of course, a portion of it that initially has been decided to be allocated will be put in." 

"Beyond that mas malaki pa ang iniisip nating pondo para dito (we're thinking of tapping even larger funds for it),” he added. 

“Definitely, asahan ng buong Pag-asa at Kalayaan Island Group (Pag-asa and the entire Kalayaan Island Group can expect) that help and support is on the way. We have the leadership of the House of Representatives where the budget emanates," Romualdez said. 

He noted the possibility of freeing up more funding during the bicameral conference committee meeting on the P5.768-trillion General Appropriations Bill (GAB) or proposed national budget for 2024. 

"We are looking at doing some reclamation here to facilitate longer, wider runway and that will also help for the naval port and fishing port area here at the other end of the runway,” he said. 

“We’re here to look at where we could do more improvements. There is a possibility of putting up a naval wharf right here and repair this port here as well," Romualdez said.