BRP Rajah Sulayman arrives at Subic naval base

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT — The future BRP Rajah Sulayman (PS20) arrived at the Naval Operating Base here on 20 January 2026.

The Philippine Navy held a welcome ceremony for its newest offshore patrol vessel during an arrival ceremony led by Vice Adm. Jose Ma Ambrosio Q. Ezpeleta, flag officer in command of the Philippine Navy.

According to the Navy, the future BRP Rajah Sulayman will serve as the lead ship of the Rajah Sulayman-class offshore patrol vessels and is the first OPV constructed by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries for the Philippine Navy.

The vessel is designed for sustained operations, enabling a consistent and responsible naval presence in the country’s maritime zones, including the West Philippine Sea.

“Our OPVs shall stand as a modern symbol of courage, as they will primarily contribute to safeguarding our maritime domain and patrolling the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone,” Ezpeleta said.

The OPV is expected to support maritime patrols, domain awareness, and law enforcement missions in accordance with international law, contributing to the protection of Filipino fisherfolk and the promotion of safe maritime activities.

“This vessel’s arrival is a strong testament to our country’s relentless drive toward protecting our territorial integrity, thereby protecting its primary assets: the Filipino people.”

“We owe them a secure and peaceful future, and to deliver on this, it is our duty to strengthen our Navy to ensure that we can counter new forms of warfare, play an integral role in joint defense within our armed forces, and enhance interoperability with partner and like-minded navies,” Ezpeleta added.