Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana’s long-planned visit to Pag-asa Island (Thitu Island) in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) on Friday was a big motivation for troops stationed there.
PAG-ASA ISLAND, Philippines — Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana’s long-planned visit to Pag-asa Island (Thitu Island) in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) on Friday was a big motivation for troops stationed there.
“Masaya kami dahil ‘yung balita na dala niya na nakakapagpa-high morale sa amin. Mapapabuti yung buhay ng mga kasundaluhan, ” said Lieutenant Senior Grade Romil Soliven, island commander on Pag-asa.
A few dozen of troops, mostly Marines, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard, are deployed on rotation every three months on the nine islands and reefs occupied by the Philippines in the Kalayaan Island Group (Spratlys) , including Pag-asa.
Pag-asa Island, the biggest territory occupied by the Philippines in the Kalayaan Island Group, is paradise with its pristine waters and white sand, but it could get lonely because of lack of leisure. For civilians, staying there is more of a choice, and it is to keep the Philippine claim of sovereignty.
For Soliven, to be assigned there is a privilege, however challenging it may be.
“Magandang experience ma-assign dito. Hindi lahat na-assign dito. Very rare and privileged kami, ” he said.
Lorenzana’s visit to the island with the military’s top brass on Friday was evidently a morale boost for the troops. He made it clear that they are not abandoned.
“Yung chief of staff, commanders ng Army, Navy, Air Force, Wescom, alam nila ang kalagayan niyo rito. Dumaan sila sa hirap na ganito. We know your conditions here, ” he told the troops.
