New warship expected to boost PhI’s maritime defense

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.

- By PIA LEE-BRAGO

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 asymbol 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.