By Brian Campued
The Philippine Navy (PN) on Tuesday formally commissioned its new modern warship, the BRP Diego Silang, into active service as part of its commitment to not just protecting the country’s maritime domain but also providing humanitarian assistance in the face of disasters.
Arrived in the Philippines from South Korea in September this year, the BRP Diego Silang (FFG-07) is a multi-role warship capable of conducting anti-surface, anti-air, anti-submarine, and electronic warfare missions.
It is armed with a torpedo launching system, C-Star missile, and vertical launching system, among others, further boosting the Navy’s operational versatility and maritime defense posture.
“As a guided missile frigate, the ship bolsters our surface combatant force, enhances maritime domain awareness and improves interoperability with partner navies,” PN Flag Office in Command Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta said during the Christening and Commissioning Ceremony at Naval Operating Base-Subic in Zambales.
“Most importantly, it enables a more persistent presence in our waters, especially in the West Philippine Sea,” Ezpeleta added.
According to the PN, six more offshore patrol vessels are also scheduled to be delivered in the country next year.
Defense Undersecretary for Acquisition and Resource Management (USARM) Salvador Melchor Mison Jr. noted the government’s support for the continued modernization of the military to continue protecting and securing Philippine sovereignty.
“Diego Silang sends a clear message that the Philippines will continue to invest in programs that strengthen maritime domain awareness, enhance deterrence, and improve our ability to uphold the rule of law,” Mison said. (with report from Patrick de Jesus / PTV News)
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