Navy launches 3rd offshore patrol vessel

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Navy launched its third offshore patrol vessel, the future BRP Rajah Humabon, in Ulsan, South Korea, as part of its modernization program, the Navy said yesterday.

Navy flag officer-in-command Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta and Armed Forces of the Philippines vice chief of staff Lt. Gen. Rommel Roldan witnessed the launching ceremony on Oct. 13.

Built by South Korean shipbuilder HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, the Rajah Humabon is expected to strengthen the Navy’s maritime surveillance, maritime security, and territorial defense capabilities. It was named after the 16th-century ruler of Cebu when Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan arrived in 1521. 

Ahead of the ceremony, Ezpeleta met with Republic of Korea Navy chief of naval operations Admiral Kim Kyung-ryul at ROK Navy headquarters on Oct. 12 to discuss opportunities to strengthen bilateral exchanges, naval cooperation and collaboration in the maritime defense industry.

The Navy said the launching of Rajah Humabon reflects its continuing commitment to building a modern and responsive fleet, strengthening strategic partnerships and enhancing its capabilities to protect the country’s maritime interests and uphold national sovereignty in service of the Filipino people.