Tarriela extends gratitude for Catholic church endeavor in Pag-asa Island

Philippine Canadian Inquirer
March 31, 2026

(Photo courtesy: Jay Tarriela/Facebook)

KALAYAAN, Palawan — PCG WPS Spokesperson RAdm Jay Tarriela shared on Saturday, March 28, his gratitude for the recent ceremonial groundbreaking of a Catholic church at Pag-asa Island in Kalayaan, Palawan.

Bishop Soc Mesiona led the said activity, alongside former Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio and the local government officials of Palawan.

“The primary objective of constructing this Roman Catholic Church on Pagasa Island is to fulfill and nurture the spiritual needs of our local residents, providing a sacred space where faith can flourish amid the threatening Chinese presence in the West Philippine Sea,” Tarriela said.

“Far more than a mere physical structure or architectural edifice, this church stands as a powerful symbol of hope, resilience, and unity,” he added, saying the endeavor underscores that Pagasa Island is unequivocally worth fighting for and defending.

“It 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.”