The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) through the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) on Thursday accepted a parcel of land donated by the local government unit (LGU) of Lubang town in Occidental Mindoro province.

The 10-hectare lot donation is strategically important and will boost economic activities in the town, said Lubang Municipal Administrator Wilfredo Bleza in an interview on Friday.

He said the land is located at Sitio Pulipuli in Barangay Araw at Bituin and donated to the military through the effort of Mayor Michael Lim Orayani with the concurrence of the Sangguniang Bayan.

“This donation will boost the economic activities of the island municipality, thru investment opportunities, tourism promotions, livelihood assistance, peace and security, and infrastructure development from the national government,” said Bleza.

“If realized, the Philippine Marine Corp will host all the skills training of the soldiers and will be the Island Training Center of Marines,” he added.

In the live-streamed signing ceremony of the deed of donation held at the municipal gymnasium, Orayani said “it is also a historic moment for the needs of the people in Lubang.. when they open doors to new friends who believe in their dreams of becoming progressive and to also benefit succeeding generations.”

He said it is their duty as elected officials to look for opportunities for their area’s growth and development.

Representing the PMC was its commandant, Maj. Gen. Charlton Sean Gaerlan. He said that historically, Lubang has been a very important place in the country because it is a passageway to Manila Bay.

“Thank you, Lubang. This is not only about peace and order and assistance but also development so we are excited to be deployed here,” he said.

The event’s keynote speaker, Senator Robin Padilla, expressed appreciation for the chorale of Stella Maris School, the “Pandanggo sa ilaw” dancers, and all sectors present – senior citizens, LGU and village officials and workers, police personnel, members of civic society organizations and rural health unit, Bureau of Fire Protection and Philippine Marine Corps personnel.

Citing the importance of love for one’s country, Padilla also led the singing of the “Ang Bayan Ko”. (PNA)