New warship expected to boost Philippines maritime defense

MANILA, Philippines, September 16 ------ The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) welcomed yesterday the arrival of its newest and most advanced guided-missile frigate, the future Diego Silang, its second Miguel Malvar-class frigate, expected to level up the country’s maritime defense posture.

The Philippine Navy’s frigate was welcomed during an arrival ceremony at the Naval Operating Base in Subic, Zambales. AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., Philippine Navy chief Vice Adm. Jose Ma Ambrosio Ezpeleta, Philippine Fleet commander Rear Adm. Joe Anthony Orbe and Diego Silang commanding officer Capt. John Percie Alcos led the arrival ceremony.

Named after Diego Silang, a revolutionary hero of Ilocos who fought against Spanish colonial rule, the ship symbolizes the enduring spirit of freedom and resistance in Philippine history. Brawner emphasized the symbolic and strategic importance of the new frigate, highlighting it as a testament to the Philippine Navy’s growing capability and a clear signal of the AFP’s resolve to strengthen its maritime defense posture. “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,” Brawner said.

The AFP said “the arrival of BRP Diego Silang represents a leap forward in the Philippine Navy’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 Diego Silang is part of the Navy’s modernization program under the contract signed with HD Hyundai Heavy Industries in 2021. Originally envisioned as corvettes, the vessels were delivered with enhanced capabilities, classifying them as frigates.

Unlike corvettes, which are typically designed for a particular warfare dimension such as anti-surface, anti-air, anti-submarine or electronic warfare, frigates are multi-role platforms capable of performing all these missions. “We are not just operators of this warship; we are its heart and soul. Our discipline, skill and sacrifice will bring life into this frigate, transforming her from machinery into the living vanguard of our seas,” Alcos said.

The Miguel Malvar-class frigates are larger and more advanced than the Jose Rizal-class frigates, with greater displacement and upgraded systems. They are equipped with a Vertical Launch System for surface-to-air missiles, a Close-In Weapon System and stronger communications and electronic warfare measures, giving the Navy a significant boost in maritime defense. “As BRP Diego Silang joins our fleet, let her be a symbol of unity for the Armed Forces, a beacon of hope for our citizens, and a stern reminder to all who would challenge our sovereignty that the Philippines stands ready to defend what is ours,” Orbe said.

Source: philstar.com