MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has instructed the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to inspect the Kalayaan Island Group for potential construction of a seaport and an airport, Palace officials said.

In a press briefing, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Office Claire Castro confirmed the directive, saying the move aims to boost tourism and provide additional 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,” Castro said.

The announcement comes as the Kalayaan Municipal Tourism Office opened limited slots for nine-day, eight-night guided tours across the island group this February. Packages include round-trip sea transfers, accommodations, and daily meals, and are available to both domestic and foreign tourists, subject to booking confirmation and compliance with local rules.

Situated in the West Philippine Sea and administered by the Municipality of Kalayaan in Palawan, the island group first welcomed regulated tourism in March 2023 through the “Great Kalayaan Expedition,” a week-long sailing program to islands including Lawak, Patag, Likas, and Pag-asa.

Since then, local officials, together with the Department of Tourism, have conducted training programs and improved facilities on Pag-asa Island to accommodate visitors while ensuring ecological protection and adherence to security protocols.

Authorities emphasized that access remains strictly controlled due to logistical and security concerns, with travelers required to coordinate directly with the municipal government.