Senator Francis Tolentino revealed plans to propose legislation that would enable the government to build sustainable human settlements on Philippine-claimed islands in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), aiming to reinforce the country’s territorial rights.
In a recent TV interview, Tolentino said, “I envision a law—possibly named the West Philippine Sea Settlement Act—that would support the creation of communities on our islands in the region.”
He noted that aside from Kalayaan in Palawan, which already hosts a Filipino community, other islands like Patag and Lawak remain uninhabited. “These are ours too. We should build infrastructure, support agriculture, and establish a resident population,” he emphasized.
Citing history, Tolentino recalled how President Magsaysay encouraged resettlement in Mindanao, which led to the growth of areas like Sultan Kudarat and General Santos City—now part of SOCCSKSARGEN.
To support potential settlers, Tolentino proposed fisheries, tourism infrastructure, and marine research facilities. “Cold storage for fishermen, local markets, and tourism ventures can drive livelihood. These islands should not just serve as temporary shelters during storms. They can be hubs for science and sustainability, aligned with what’s allowed under UNCLOS,” he said.
Tolentino, who authored the Philippine Maritime Zones Act (RA 12064) signed into law in November 2024, emphasized the importance of strengthening the country’s maritime rights. The act, alongside the Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act, is seen as key to reinforcing Philippine claims in the resource-rich region