The Philippine Navy officially commissioned its second Miguel Malvar-class frigate, BRP Diego Silang (FFG-077), on Tuesday, placing the multi-role warship into active service.
Named after the 18th-century revolutionary leader, the vessel is expected to strengthen maritime domain awareness in the country’s exclusive economic zone in the West Philippine Sea and beyond.
“It’s a testament of our growing capability in terms of defending our country, particularly our sovereignty,” Philippine Navy spokesperson Captain Marissa Martinez said.
“It is a symbol of our unwavering commitment to secure and protect our sovereignty and, of course, our Filipino nation,” she added.
The 116-meter ship can reach speeds of up to 25 knots, cruise at 15 knots, and has a range of 4,500 nautical miles. It is designed for anti-surface, anti-air, anti-submarine, and electronic warfare missions.
Compared to the Jose Rizal-class, the 3,200-ton BRP Diego Silang features a longer hull, larger displacement, and upgraded communication and electronic warfare systems.
“It’s good to mention that the FFG07 or BRP Diego Silang is an upgraded version of the former frigate, the Jose Rizal frigate. So, it has new systems, modern systems, and it would help in our maritime domain awareness,” Martinez said.
Defense Undersecretary Salvador Melchor Mison Jr. noted that the ship reflects the country’s steady modernization efforts.
“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,” he said.
The frigate will participate in next year’s Balikatan exercises with the United States and undergo battle-readiness evaluations.
“Right now, it will be undergoing several battle-readiness evaluations in order to test…for its capability development, for the enhancement of the competencies, not only of the people but also the proficiency of the whole ship in the performance of various warfare serials or warfare activities,” Martinez added.