The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has inaugurated a new basing support system on Pag-asa Island to strengthen its capacity to sustain air operations in one of the country’s most strategic areas.
PAF chief Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura led the inauguration on Thursday, highlighting the facility’s role in enhancing operational support and boosting the military’s presence in the West Philippine Sea.
In a statement, the PAF said the infrastructure is designed to improve air mission capabilities and provide more consistent logistical and operational support for deployed forces.
Pag-asa Island, about 280 nautical miles northwest of Puerto Princesa City, spans 37.2 hectares and serves as the seat of government of Kalayaan town. It is one of nine features occupied by Filipino troops in the contested waters.
The island lies roughly 12 nautical miles from Subi Reef, a Chinese-occupied feature that has been developed into a fortified military installation following extensive land reclamation.
The PAF said the project was implemented in coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, MAMSAR Construction Corporation, and the Palawan local government.
Cordura said the new system addresses previous operational limitations, enabling more reliable and sustained mission support.
The development forms part of the PAF’s broader efforts to enhance readiness and reinforce its presence in key strategic areas, while upholding the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and contributing to regional stability.