The Philippine Navy officially inducted two new naval platforms—BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG-06) and BRP Albert Majini (PG-909)—during a ceremony held on May 20 at Naval Operating Base Subic in Zambales, as part of its 127th anniversary celebrations.

Egypt begins local production of PV43-M coastal vessels with NVL support
Egypt begins local production of PV43-M coastal vessels with NVL support
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The commissioning was led by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who underscored the country’s commitment to safeguarding its maritime territories. Addressing naval personnel, Marcos stated, “We are determined. We will never tolerate any act of disrespect to our sovereignty,” in a message interpreted by many as directed at ongoing disputes with China in the South China Sea.

The BRP Miguel Malvar, a guided-missile frigate acquired from South Korea, features integrated anti-surface, anti-submarine, and anti-air capabilities, along with electronic warfare systems. Measuring 118 meters, the ship is intended for long-range, multi-mission deployments and enhances the Navy’s capacity for blue-water operations.

The BRP Albert Majini, meanwhile, is the country’s first locally assembled missile-capable patrol vessel. As the eighth unit in the Acero-class Fast Attack Interdiction Craft (FAIC-M) line, the ship is equipped for coastal security missions and rapid response operations. It is named after Ensign Albert Majini, a Medal of Valor awardee known for his actions during a 1980 anti-piracy operation in Basilan.

The introduction of both vessels supports the Philippine Navy’s modernization drive and aims to address a range of maritime security challenges in the region. The move is also seen as part of Manila’s broader efforts to assert its maritime claims in contested waters.

The event comes amid ongoing tensions in the South China Sea, where multiple countries—including the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Brunei—challenge China’s expansive territorial claims. The Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague ruled in 2016 that China’s claims had no legal basis, a decision Beijing has rejected.

President Marcos reiterated that the Navy's operational readiness is key to upholding national interests, particularly as regional disputes over maritime rights and access continue to escalate.