The Philippine Navy has formally commissioned its second Miguel Malvar-class frigate, BRP Diego Silang (FFG-07),  marking a steady progress in the military modernization efforts, advancing a defense posture that keeps pace with the country’s expanding responsibilities in protecting the state and securing its sovereignty.

The Christening and Commissioning Ceremony of the new warship was graced by Department of National Defense Undersecretary for Acquisition and Resource Management Salvador Melchor Mison Jr., Philippine Navy Flag Officer in Command Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta, Philippine Fleet Commander, Rear Admiral Joe Anthony C. Orbe, BRP Diego Silang commanding officer, Capt. John Percie Alcos, and officials from the Embassy of the Republic of Korea at the Naval Operating Base-Subic, Zambales, on 2 December. 

The BRP Diego Silang is designed for multi-role naval operations, including anti-surface, anti-air, anti-submarine, and electronic warfare missions. 

The vessel features a longer hull, greater displacement, and upgraded communication and electronic warfare systems compared to the Jose Rizal-class frigates, enabling expanded operational capability.

Mison described the commissioning as a demonstration of continued progress in the country’s naval 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. 

For his part, Ezpeleta said the addition of the Diego Silang will enhance the Navy’s ability to support joint operations across the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). 

“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,” Ezpeleta said. 

“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,” he added. 

With her commissioning, the Diego Silang is now officially part of the Navy’s active fleet and ready for deployment in maritime security missions, regional cooperation engagements, and disaster response operations.

The Philippine Navy also said the new vessel “would provide timely humanitarian assistance and disaster response whenever Filipinos need it most.”