BRP Alcaraz crew celebrate farewell Mass with Hawaii Fil-Ams, on way to Guam

The crew of the BRP Ramon Alcaraz, the Philippines' newest warship, took part in a despedida Mass and breakfast with the local Filipino-American community in Hawaii before continuing their journey to the Philippines.

Photos posted early Wednesday (Philippine time) on the BRP Alcaraz's Facebook page showed the crew celebrating Mass aboard the ship and having breakfast with members of the Filipino-American community.

A separate report on state-run Philippines News Agency said the vessel is now headed for Guam.

"[BRP Ramon Alcaraz] departed Hawaii around 5 a.m. (Philippine time)," Navy spokesperson Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic said, according to PNA.

But he declined to say when the ship is expected to drop anchor in Guam "for operational security."

Earlier, the Department of Foreign Affairs said the vessel is expected to reach the Philippines on August 3.

The BRP Ramon Alcaraz arrived in Hawaii last weekend to a warm welcome from the Filipino-American community there.

Hawaii was the frigate's second port call en route to the Philippines. Last June 28, the BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PF-16) docked at San Diego 28 for refueling and re-provisioning.

The ship is named after Filipino naval hero Commodore Ramon Alcaraz, who gained distinction in World War II by shooting down three Japanese Zero fighters that tried to attack his ship. — BM, GMA News