Philippine Navy commissions BRP Miguel Malvar

The Philippine Navy welcomed its newest acquisition, the South Korean-built corvette BRP Miguel Malvar, at Naval Operating Base Subic in Zambales on Tuesday, April 8.

Department of National Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. led the welcoming ceremony to highlight the vessel's role as a deterrent and protector of Philippine waters while also facilitating joint operations with allies to uphold international law.

The BRP Miguel Malvar measures 118.4 meters long and 14.9 meters wide, equipped with C-STAR anti-ship missiles, VL MICA vertical launch systems, and a 3D AESA radar.

Teodoro emphasized that the arrival is a critical step toward developing a self-reliant and credible defense posture focusing on core capabilities, training, education, and integrated threat response systems.

The Philippine Navy signed a PHP28-billion deal with South Korean manufacturer HD Hyundai Heavy Industries in 2021 for two new corvettes; the second vessel, BRP Diego Silang, is expected to be delivered by September.