Philippine Navy commissions second Miguel Malvar-class frigate BRP Diego Silang

The Philippine Navy has commissioned its second Miguel Malvar-class frigate, the BRP Diego Silang (FFG-077), into active service during a ceremony at Naval Operating Base-Subic, Zambales.

Built by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries in Ulsan, South Korea, the 3,200-ton frigate is an enlarged version of the Jose Rizal-class frigate.

The BRP Diego Silang is expected to bolster the country's maritime domain awareness and enhance its capability in defending the nation's sovereignty, particularly in the West Philippine Sea.

This multi-role warship is equipped for anti-surface, anti-air, anti-submarine, and electronic warfare missions.

Compared to the Jose Rizal-class frigates, it features a longer hull, larger displacement, and improved communication and electronic warfare systems.

Department of National Defense Undersecretary Salvador Melchor B. Mison, Jr. stated that the commissioning reflects the steady progress of the nation's modernization efforts and its commitment to strengthening maritime domain awareness and deterrence.