It is for the possible construction of vital tourism infrastructures like an airport or seaport.
On Wednesday, February 18, Palace Press Officer Usec. Claire Castro confirmed that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s instruction to Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon.
Specifically, the Public Works chief was directed to conduct a through inspection of the Kalayaan Island Group in the West Philippine Sea.
This is to identify sites for the possible construction of seaport and airport, which aim to strengthen tourism development and create more livelihood opportunities for local residents.
“Sa ngayon po ay nakausap ko mismo si Sec. Vince, at inutusan po talaga sila ng Pangulo na puntahan ang Kalayaan Island Group at tingnan po kung ano ang kinakailangan. At sila po ay magmumungkahi na gumawa doon ng port at ng airway,” said Castro.
Notably, Marcos’ directive comes just as the Kalayaan Municipal Tourism Office opened limited slots for the nine-day, eight-night guided tour packages across the island group beginning February 2026.
Included in the packages are round-trip sea transfers, accommodation, and daily meals. It will be open to both domestic and foreign tourists, subject to booking confirmation and compliance with local guidelines.
Authorities, however, stressed that access to the area remains strictly regulated due to logistical and security considerations.
The island group was first formally opened to regulated tourism in March 2023 through the “Great Kalayaan Expedition,” a week-long sailing program that brought visitors to key islands, including Lawak, Patag, Likas, and Pag-asa.
Since then, local officials, in coordination with the Department of Tourism (DOT), have conducted training and implemented facility improvements on Pag-asa Island to prepare residents for visitor arrivals, while also ensuring ecological protection and compliance with security protocols.