Philippine Navy commissions two new naval vessels

During the Philippine Navy’s 127th Anniversary celebration, the navy christened and commissioned two new naval vessels, BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG06) and BRP Albert Majini (PG909).

As disclosed, the ceremony took place on May 20, 2025, at Naval Operating Base, Subic, Zambales. BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG06), a guided-missile frigate named after the last Filipino general to surrender during the Philippine-American War, arrived on April 4, 2025. It was built by South Korean shipbuilding heavyweight HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HD HHI).

The ship measures 118.4 meters long, with a range of 4,500 nautical miles, a cruising speed of 15 knots, and a maximum speed of 25 knots. 

Equipped with anti-surface, anti-submarine, anti-air and electronic warfare systems, the vessel features advanced sensors and weapons systems and is designed for long-range, multi-role combat operations. 

In March this year, HD HHI launched the second Miguel Malvar-class corvette. The ship is named after Diego Silang, a leader of the Philippine independence movement who resisted Spanish rule and established an independent province. 

BRP Albert Majini (PG909), the eighth Acero-class fast attack interdiction craft (FAIC-M), is the first locally assembled missile-capable patrol vessel in the country.

Named after Medal of Valor awardee Ensign Albert Majini PN, the ship honors his gallantry during antipiracy operations in Basilan in 1980. PG909 is built for rapid interdiction and coastal operations under the PN’s Littoral Combat Force. 

The commissioning of these two platforms is expected to strengthen the Philippine Navy’s capacity to address current and emerging maritime challenges.