By Priam Nepomuceno / Philippine News Agency
The dock and sea trials for offshore patrol vessel BRP Gregorio Del Pilar (PS-15) which ran aground off Hasa-Hasa Shoal in August 2018, have been scheduled for November.
Philippine Navy (PN) spokesperson, Commander Benjo Negranza, made this statement when asked for updates regarding the repairs of the ship.
“BRP Gregorio Del Pilar (PS-15) was undocked and moved to Subic Bay Freeport Zone SBMA, Zambales. All other outstanding repairs are being completed now that PS-15 is back on the water. Dock and sea trials are scheduled for the end of November this year,” he said in a message to the Philippine News Agency on Wednesday night.
One of the ship’s two variable pitch propellers was damaged, along with its propeller hub, after its grounding.
Negranza earlier said the drydocking and other related repairs of BRP Gregorio Del Pilar are expected to be completed by September.
“Nevertheless, the PN exerts all efforts to remain vigilant and to uphold its mandate in guarding the country’s waters. We are one with our countrymen in looking forward to PS-15’s repair completion,” he added.
The PN said difficulties in procuring parts and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic have moved the completion of the repairs of the BRP Gregorio Del Pilar to the latter part of 2021. (PNA)-rir
