The lack of medicine, inadequate healthcare facilities, and proximity to hospitals are among the problems besetting residents of Balabac, the southernmost municipality of Palawan.

 For 62-year-old Nora Dingcohong, medical treatment is a six-hour travel to Puerto Princesa. 

 Nora suffers from stomach pains and blurred vision, she simply cannot afford the trip.

 “Malayo. Katulad sa aming mahirap. Walang panggastos… Dito ‘yong sa hospital, kulang pa. Wala pang kuryente, gamot,” said Dingcohong.

 Nora was among residents who availed of free consultations and medicines during the All-in-One Bayanihan Outreach Activity organized by the Philippine Air Force and volunteer groups.

 According to Balabac Mayor Shuaib Astami, access to proper healthcare remains a serious challenge for the over 40,000 residents of the town. 

“Malaki talaga ang problema kung sa facilities ng medical. Malayo kami sa mga hospital ‘yong kompleto. Karamihan kasi kung pasyente, may referral diyan sa district, dalhin namin doon sa Puerto (Princesa). Mga 5 hrs, mahirap din talaga,” Astami said. 

 To see the situation firsthand, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro visited Balabac. 

 He emphasized the importance of government presence in far-flung communities.

 “Andito rin tayo upang mag-engage sa mga tao sa Balabac to show at maipahiwatig sa kanila na the national government ay pumupunta sa kanila… Kailangang madama ng ating mga kababayan na the government is really looking out for their welfare,” Teodoro said. 

 As part of the government’s strategy to boost national security and development in the region, the Department of National Defense is planning to construct a naval and an air base on Balabac.

 “Recognized as international sea lane ito, so, minsan dumadaan talaga dito ang mga Chinese vessel so ito pag hindi nadama o hindi nagkaroon ng presence rito, napakadali na abusuhin ng foreign influence and other inappropriate and illegal activities,” Teodoro added.

 The DND is currently in discussions with other government agencies, including the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), to explore the feasibility of a runway that will support both defense and commercial activities in the area.  

The initiative is also seen as a potential booster of economic growth and tourism, taking advantage of Balabac’s stunning natural landscape and strategic location. 

Once completed, these projects are expected to improve logistics, make it easier for the government to deliver aid, and boost access to basic services for residents.