Read this in The Manila Times digital edition.
THE Philippine Navy (PN) significantly enhanced its maritime capabilities with the recent commissioning of two new vessels, the BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG-06) and the BRP Albert Majini (PG909), during its 127th anniversary celebration on May 20, 2025.
This event marked a pivotal moment in the PN's modernization efforts, bolstering its ability to safeguard the nation's maritime interests and address evolving regional security challenges.
The Miguel Malvar-class corvettes offered enhanced capabilities over the Jose Rizal-class frigates. At 118.4 meters long and 14.9 meters wide, they cruised at 15 knots with a range of 4,500 nautical miles.
The commissioning of the BRP Albert Majini, an Acero-class Fast Attack Interdiction Craft, held particular significance as the first locally assembled missile-capable patrol vessel. This achievement underscored the growing capabilities of the Philippine shipbuilding industry and its vital role in national defense.
The addition of these two vessels significantly enhanced the the Philippine Navy's capacity to address a range of maritime security challenges, including territorial disputes, illegal activities and disaster response.
Secretary of National Defense Gilberto Teodoro Jr., Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. and uniformed officials witnessed the ceremony.
"In every mission, the Navy proves that maritime strength is measured by the character, clarity of mission, and the commitment of those who serve," said President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., emphasizing that the the Philippine Navy's dedication consistently showed what real service looked like. Despite long days and rough seas, the strength and commitment of the warriors of the sea would forever remain firm.
Obtaining these naval assets signified the Philippine Navy`s aim to become a modern, multi-capable and force-responsive navy, addressing the challenges the nation is currently facing. Apart from this, one of the goals of this mission was to strengthen the people's trust.
The celebration ended with a renewed commitment to camaraderie, professionalism and maritime excellence as the Philippine Navy enters its next phase of service to the Filipino people and the nation.
"Your courage, skill and wisdom contribute greatly to the strength and inspire the entire Navy," added Marcos as he concluded his remarks in Filipino.
I extend my warmest greetings to the men and women of the Philippine Navy on your 127th Anniversary.
As we move forward with our defense transformation efforts, we continue to strengthen our systems and facilities to equip the Navy to meet evolving challenges. Under the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept, the Philippine Navy plays a vital role not only in defending our waters and coastlines but also in working with partner countries to uphold international law, promote a rules-based global order, and safeguard regional peace and stability.
On behalf of the Department of National Defense, I call on our sailors, marines and all personnel of the Philippine Navy to stay focused on building a modern, capable and credible force. I wish you fair winds and following seas. Mabuhay ang Hukbong Dagat ng Pilipinas.
Gilberto Teodoro
Defense Secretary
LONG before we learned to measure coastlines or name our territories, the sea carved its music into our lives. In its rhythm, we built our beginnings. In its vastness, we found the shape of our longing for a free and ascendant nation. For 127 years, the Philippine Navy has answered that call with discipline that does not age and devotion that does not fade. It has watched over our archipelago with the strength of those who understand that to guard the sea is to guard the memory of who we are — a people shaped by distance yet bound by vigilance, discipline and patriotism.
Here in Subic, we launch two new vessels — BRP Miguel Malvar and BRP Albert Majini — and send them across waters already heavy with story. These ships are borne forward by the memory of those who came before: sailors who stood their post through war and calamity, and officers who dreamed of a Navy worthy of the people it protects. Their hulls carry the pulse of a country, determined to endure, grow and safeguard what has been entrusted to it. In commissioning these vessels, we do not merely expand our fleet; we uphold our sovereignty.
To those who wear the Navy's uniform, know that you bear within you the quiet strength that holds our nation together. Yours is the calling that steadies the archipelago in uncertain waters and brings distant islands into one shared horizon. As we mark your 127th Anniversary, we look not only to the past but also to what lies ahead. Sail forward with deeper purpose and let every mission you undertake affirm the promise that this country shall remain whole, free and protected because you have chosen to serve.
I wish you a happy and meaningful anniversary.
Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
President of the Philippines