Navy’s first missile-firing frigate arrives in Subic

June 16, 2020

The Philippine Navy's first missile-firing frigate arrived in the country on Monday.

Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas, acting Philippine Navy public affairs  director. said the newest and first missile-capable frigate which will be christened Barko ng Republika ng Pilipinas (BRP) Jose Rizal, once it is commissioned to the service, arrived at Alava Wharf in Subic Bay.

Roxas said after its successful two-week quarantine period in adherence to COVID-19 health protocols, the crew of the frigate built by South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) was tendered a traditional arrival ceremony led by the commander of Philippine Fleet, Rear Admiral Loumer Bernabe.

"The addition of FF150 in the current fleet inventory provides a significant boost to the fulfilment of the PN`s thrust of having modern and multi-mission capable platform  to conduct anti-surface, anti-air, anti-submarine and electronic warfare operations," she said.

Roxas there will be a separate handover, christening and commissioning ceremony, originally scheduled on June 19.

She said President Rodrigo Duterte is expected to attend the momentous event as the guest of honor and speaker.

Roxas said BRP Jose Rizal has a maiden crew of 65 sailors headed by its commanding officer, Captain Jerry Garrido Jr.

"He considers the frigate as a symbol of another milestone in the PN`s pursuit of becoming a more modernized and competent naval force responsive to our maritime nation's defense," she said.

Roxas said Bernabe thanked the officers and men for their efforts and perseverance in familiarizing the different systems of the ship through constant training and drills.

“Together, let us bring our Navy to the next level, not only because of more modern ships, weapons and sensors but because of more competent and confident personnel, equipped with modern and disciplined mindsets” Bernabe said.

Roxas said Bernabe "also conveyed his utmost appreciation to the HHI and the South Korean government for their support in the country's endeavor to modernize the Philippine Navy and bring home the vessel and its crew safe and secured."

Personal protective equipment carried by the vessel that was donated by the South Korean government and HHI, was formally turned over by HHI`s representative, Bokyeung Kang, to the Philippine Navy, she said. Robina Asido/DMS