The Philippines has begun moving troops and equipment to a disputed island in the South China Sea which is claimed by both Manila and Beijing, a Philippines general said. It comes ahead of construction, including lengthening an airstrip on the island. The troops and initial supplies arrived at Pag-asa Island last week, Lt. Gen. Raul del Rosario, head of the
Philippine military’s Western Command, said as quoted by AP. Some 1.6 billion pesos (US$32 million) has been set aside for construction on the island, which will include reinforcing and lengthening and airstrip and building dock, according to the official. Solar power, a desalination plant and refurbishment of military housing, as well as sites for marine research and tourists, are set to be built on the island. READ MORE
