Philippine Navy commissions BRP Diego Silang

Subic Bay Freeport – The Philippine Navy (PN) has commissioned the BRP Diego Silang (FFG07) at the Naval Operating Base–Subic in Subic Bay Freeport on 2 December 2025.

During the Christening and Commissioning Ceremony of the second Miguel Malvar-class frigate, the PN welcomed Department of National Defense (DND) Undersecretary for Acquisition and Resource Management (USARM) Salvador Melchor B. Mison, Jr.

Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Q. Ezpeleta, PN, Flag Officer in Command, Philippine Navy; Rear Admiral Joe Anthony C. Orbe, PN, Commander, Philippine Fleet; Captain John Percie Alcos, PN(GSC), Commanding Officer, BRP Diego Silang (FFG07); Counselor Kwon Soon Hyun, Embassy of the Republic of Korea; along with other key AFP and defense officials, were also present during the ceremony.

The newly christened and commissioned BRP Diego Silang is a multi-role warship capable of conducting anti-surface, anti-air, anti-submarine, and electronic warfare missions.

Compared to the Jose Rizal-class, it features a longer hull, larger displacement, and enhanced communication and electronic warfare support measures, further boosting the PN’s operational versatility and maritime defense posture.

“Barko ng Republika ng Pilipinas Diego Silang reflects the steady progress of our modernization effort, another step in building a defense posture that keeps pace with our growing responsibilities in protecting the state and securing our sovereignty,” he said.

“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,” Mison added.

He also stated that the christening and commissioning of BRP Diego Silang clearly demonstrates the progress the country continues to achieve as the government pursues a stronger, more capable Philippine Navy.

The said achievement is also made possible through the support of the Filipino people, whose continued investment in our nation’s defense enables the Navy to modernize and expand its capabilities.

“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. 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,” emphasized Vice Admiral Ezpeleta.

As the Philippine Navy formally places BRP Diego Silang into active service, the PN renews its commitment to defending the country’s maritime domain, strengthening regional cooperation, and providing timely humanitarian assistance and disaster response whenever Filipinos need it most.