The National Defense College of the Philippines (NDCP) handed over donations to the residents of Pag-asa Island in the West Philippine Sea during an official visit on 26 April 2023. Prior to the event, the College spearheaded a donation drive, wherein they gathered clothes, toys, food, and other donations for the beneficiaries and the community.

LtGen Ferdinand M Cartujano PAF(Ret), President of the NDCP, along with other officials, staff, and students, were received by LCdr Romel O Dionela PN, Commander of Joint Task Unit Pag-asa, and LCdr Rey S Tibay PN, Commanding Officer of Naval Station Emilio Liwanag, when they arrived at the island.

In his remarks, LtGen Cartujano expressed his gratitude to the residents, including school children, who took the time to welcome the College’s delegation—given that it is a rare opportunity to be allowed to visit Pag-asa Island.

Donations came from the alumni of the Master in National Security Administration (MNSA) RC 39, 54, 55, 57, module directors of MNSA RC 58, National Security Studies Program Class 04, and other stakeholders of the College.