BRP Antonio Luna to be deployed in West Philippine Sea —fleet commander

The newly acquired BRP Antonio Luna will be deployed in the West Philippine Sea to protect the country's fisherfolk and water resources, Philippine Navy’s Philippine Fleet commander Rear Admiral Loumer Bernabe said on Tuesday.

At the Laging Handa public briefing, Bernabe said the Antonio Luna and its personnel will undergo training first before the deployment of the frigate.

“Kapag ito po ay nakahanda na, ito po ay ating ide-deploy sa West Philippine Sea sa Philippine Rise upang pangalagaan ang interes ng ating mangingisda, pangalagaan ang ating mga yaman, kung saan ang iba’t ibang bansa ay nagingisda nang illegal sa mga karagatng iyan,” he said.

On February 9, the Philippine Navy welcomed the new warship.

Philippine Navy earlier said BRP Antonio Luna will complete the PN Frigate Acquisition Project that fulfills the goal of having modern platforms and systems.

These will provide opportunities for its personnel to develop modern mindsets and propel the whole organization into becoming a multi-capable naval force responsive to our maritime nation’s defense and development, the Navy said. — BM, GMA News