Pag-asa Island breaks ground for first Catholic church

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MANILA, Philippines — A Catholic chapel will open on Pag-asa Island in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), with Puerto Princesa Bishop Socrates Mesiona leading the groundbreaking ceremony over the weekend. 

In a tweet, Rear Adm. Jay Tarriela, Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson for WPS, said the construction of a church “sends a clear and enduring message that this island is not just a strategic outpost, but a living, breathing community deserving the protection from our government.”

“Far more than a mere physical structure or architectural edifice, this church stands as a powerful symbol of hope, resilience and unity,” Tarriela said.

He expressed appreciation to Mesiona, the local governments of Palawan and former Supreme Court senior associate justice Antonio Carpio for making the occasion more meaningful.

Tarriela said the construction reflects the call to defend the WPS, noting that more social services will be introduced to the island, including education, healthcare and infrastructure.

He said the “primary objective of constructing this Roman Catholic church on Pag-asa Island is to fulfill and nurture the spiritual needs of residents, providing a sacred space where faith can flourish amid the threatening Chinese presence in the West Philippine Sea.”

Mesiona expressed hope that the chapel would strengthen the residents’ resolve and sense of ownership of the island, adding that it is part of every citizen’s duty to protect Philippine territory.

“This is a symbol of faith. Here, strength will be drawn in times of hardship and in facing trials,” Mesiona said in his homily. 

“It is saddening when a fellow Filipino says this (island) is not ours,” he added. “May this be a sign of unity.”

The chapel, to be built on a 1,200-square-meter lot, will be the first permanent Catholic structure on the island, where religious services have previously been held in temporary or makeshift venues.

It is expected to serve about 400 residents, most of whom are Catholics, offering a spiritual center in the far-flung community.

Located about 280 nautical miles northwest of Puerto Princesa City, the Kalayaan Island Group, which includes Pag-asa, has been at the center of maritime and territorial disputes with China.