Lucas Sta. Ana, son of veteran news anchor Karen Davila, shared his experience going to Pag-Asa Island in the West Philippine Sea last June 20. He recalled how close he was seeing the Chinese Coast Guard vessels and the challenges the residents of the island are facing everyday.
Photo credit: @lucasdavilastaana Instagram
Pag-Asa island is 500 kilometers west of Puerto Princesa and has been one of the most highly disputed islands in the West Philippine Sea.
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“I had the honor of flying to Pag-Asa island, the largest & only populated island in the WPS,” he wrote.
Lucas showed some photos and videos in his post which included the China Coast Guard roaming and patrolling the area.
He added how he was able to learn how challenging it is to stand up for the sovereignty rights of the country and gave his salute to the civilians living in Pag-Asa Island.
“I witnessed the severity of China’s presence in our waters - China Coast Guard vessels in our EEZ, within eyesight from the island. Speaking with PCG Commodore Jay Tarriela, I was able to get a deeper understanding on the challenges we face in standing up for our sovereignty in the WPS,” he added.
Lucas was able to bring supplies for the students and teachers living on the island as part of his visit.
“I salute our kababayans on the island! Standing strong! Pag-Asa island is the only island within the Spratlys to have a civilian population, with over 400 inhabitants. As a part of my visit, I brought school supplies for the public school students and teachers in the area,” he ended.
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Karen expressed how proud she was of her son for sharing his experience and using his platform to give an update on how Pag-Asa Island looks from inside. Netizens applauded him as well for being a true patriot and how brave he was for going to one of the most disputed islands in the world.
“Glad you experienced this first hand,” Karen wrote.
“You're one of a kind young Man with noble deeds...A True Citizen with so much Concern to our Only Country, The Philippines. Your parents must be Credited for having you as their son. GOD Bless you,” a netizen shared.
Lucas is the second child of Karen with DJ Sta. Ana.