By Priam Nepomuceno | Philippine News Agency
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday formally welcomed the Philippine Navy’s (PN) newest and most advanced guided-missile frigate, during an arrival ceremony at the Naval Operating Base Subic in Zambales.
In his speech during the welcoming ceremony, AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said the new frigate, soon to be called BRP Diego Silang (FFG-07), is not only a testament to the PN’s growing capability but also a clear signal of the institution’s resolve to strengthen its maritime defense posture.
Brawner said, “BRP Diego Silang is a symbol of our nation’s resolve to defend what is rightfully ours, to stand firm in the face of challenges, and to demonstrate our readiness to safeguard the interests of our people.”
He said the arrival of BRP Diego Silang represents a “leap forward” in the PN’s strength and resolve, reinforcing the nation’s position as a vigilant guardian of its seas and a steadfast protector of its people.
The future BRP Diego Silang, the sister ship of BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG-06), arrived in the country on Sept. 8 and was welcomed by the PN’s first guided-missile frigate, BRP Jose Rizal (FFG-150).
According to the PN, the soon-to-be BRP Diego Silang will undergo final preparations, acceptance procedures, and commissioning before officially joining its active fleet.
Once it joins the fleet, the PN said BRP Diego Silang will greatly enhance the service’s operational readiness, maritime domain protection, and capability to uphold a free, secure, and rules-based international order.
Like its sister ship, BRP Miguel Malvar, which arrived in the country on April 8 and was commissioned on May 20, BRP Diego Silang weighs 3,200 gross tons, measures 118.4 meters, and has a beam of 14.9 meters.
It also has a range of 4,500 nautical miles and a cruising speed of 15 knots with a maximum of 25 knots. The ship is equipped with sensors, surveillance systems, and weapons platforms for multi-combat operations, enabling it to track and engage surface, sub-surface, and air threats. (PNA)
