Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 10) — President Rodrigo Duterte praised the commissioning of the country’s first missile-capable frigate on Friday, saying it is a “new era” for the Philippine Navy.
“Today is the beginning of a new era of development and transformation of our Philippine Navy as we witness the commissioning of Barko ng Republika ng Pilipinas Jose Rizal,” he said in a taped message played during the ceremony.
Duterte was not in attendance during the commissioning and christening of the vessel at Alava Wharf in Subic Bay, Zambales. In his message, he also congratulated the Navy for its feat.
The Navy had earlier said it was studying options for the President to physically attend the ceremony.
The commissioning was initially scheduled on June 19, the birth anniversary of its namesake, Philippine national hero Dr. Jose Rizal, but was delayed due to COVID-19 health protocols.
Another frigate, the BRP Antonio Luna is expected to arrive by year-end.
BRP will be focused on conducting anti-air warfare, anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and electronic warfare operations. It has a maximum designed speed of 25 knots, a cruising speed of 15 knots and a range of 4,500 nautical miles.
