The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has released an updated nautical chart for Pag-asa Island, aiming to provide more accurate maritime information for vessels navigating the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
The chart, produced through the DENR’s National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA), is among the key outputs of the Hydrographic Surveys of Philippine Waters, which seek to strengthen the mapping and documentation of the country’s maritime areas.
The updated chart provides hydrographic information intended to support safer navigation around Pag-asa Island and the wider West Philippine Sea, according to the DENR.
Local fishers, commercial vessels and maritime patrols operating in Philippine waters are among those expected to benefit from the updated information.
The DENR said the chart also serves as official documentation of Philippine waters in the West Philippine Sea and contains information supporting the country’s maritime rights under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
“Ang opisyal na chart na ito ay nagsisilbi rin bilang pormal na dokumentasyon ng ating mga katubigan sa West Philippine Sea at naglalaman ng mga mahahalagang impormasyon na sumusuporta sa karapatang pandagat ng bansa sa ilalim ng United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS),” the agency said.
The release of the chart forms part of efforts to improve hydrographic data and maritime documentation in Philippine waters, with practical applications for navigation and maritime operations.
