BRP Diego Silang commissioned as PH Navy's newest warship

The Philippine Navy is set to improve its capabilities after it officially commissioned BRP Diego Silang (FFG07) as the second Miguel Malvar-class frigate to join the fleet, during a Christening and Commissioning Ceremony at Naval Operating Base-Subic, Zambales on Tuesday.

Built by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries in Ulsan, South Korea, the 3,200-ton Diego Silang is an enlarged version of the equally modern and capable Jose Rizal-class frigate.

The Diego Silang is described by the Navy as “a multi-role warship capable of conducting anti-surface, anti-air, anti-submarine, and electronic warfare missions. Compared to the Jose Rizal-class, it features a longer hull, larger displacement, and enhanced communication and electronic warfare support measures, further boosting the PN’s operational versatility and maritime defense posture.”

Dignitaries at the event were led by Department of National Defense (DND), Undersecretary for Acquisition and Resource Management (USARM), Salvador Melchor B. Mison, Jr.

“Barko ng Republika ng Pilipinas Diego Silang reflects the steady progress of our modernization effort, another step in building a defense posture that keeps pace with our growing responsibilities in protecting the state and securing our 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,” said Mison.

Also present were Vice Admiral Jose Ma Ambrosio Q Ezpeleta PN, Flag Officer in Command, Philippine Navy, Rear Admiral Joe Anthony C Orbe PN, Commander, Philippine Fleet, Captain John Percie Alcos PN(GSC), Commanding Officer, BRP Diego Silang (FFG07), and Counselor Kwon Soon Hyun, Embassy of the Republic of Korea, along with other AFP and defense officials.

“Our desire to evolve is reasonable, as we confront a broad range of emerging security threats that endanger not only our country and people now, but even the generations of Filipinos to come. Thus, we owe them a secure and peaceful future, and to deliver on this, it is our duty to build our capabilities in order to become an important cog in joint defense operations within our Armed Forces,” added Vice Admiral Ezpeleta. —RF, GMA Integrated News