AFP commissions 2 Navy ships to boost maritime defense

The Armed Forces of the Philippines on Tuesday bolstered its maritime security posture with the christening and commissioning of two new naval assets — the offshore patrol vessel BRP Rajah Sulayman (PS-20) and the fast attack interdiction craft BRP Audrey Bañares (PG-910) — at the Naval Operating Base in Subic, Zambales.

The ceremony was led by AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr. and marked another milestone in the military’s modernization program aimed at securing the country’s archipelagic waters, coastlines and economic zones.

Brawner was joined by Vice Adm. Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta, flag officer in command of the Philippine Navy, along with senior military officials and guests.

BRP Rajah Sulayman was named after the pre-Hispanic ruler who led Tagalog forces during the 1570 Battle of Manila, symbolizing courage and leadership. BRP Audrey Bañares, meanwhile, honors Navy commando Jose Audrey Bañares, who was killed off Zamboanga City in September 2013 following a sea battle with Moro National Liberation Front extremists.

The AFP said the integration of the two vessels into the active fleet enhances the country’s capability for both littoral and deep-sea operations.

In his keynote address, Brawner emphasized that the military’s modernization drive is rooted in safeguarding national security and maintaining peace.

“Let me be clear: modernization is not a signal of aggression. It is a statement of responsibility. A credible defense posture deters conflict. Preparedness prevents miscalculation. Capability preserves peace,” Brawner said.