The Philippine Navy's newest offshore patrol vessel, the future BRP Rajah Sulayman, arrived from South Korea on January 17, bolstering the service's expanding modern fleet. It was greeted by the BRP Jose Rizal in waters off Zambales as part of standard naval protocols. The ship will now undergo post-delivery activities and technical checks before formal commissioning.
On January 17, the future BRP Rajah Sulayman, the Philippine Navy's latest offshore patrol vessel acquired from South Korea, reached the country. The ship was escorted by the BRP Jose Rizal, the Navy's first missile-capable frigate, in waters off Zambales on Saturday, following standard protocols for entering Philippine territorial waters.
Commander Marie Angelica Sisican, chief of the Philippine Navy's public affairs office, stated that after completing coordination and meeting procedures at sea, the future BRP Rajah Sulayman will commence post-delivery activities and technical checks. She noted that these steps precede the acceptance and pre-commissioning processes, which will enhance the Navy's maritime defense and law enforcement capabilities.
The vessel's arrival highlights the Navy's dedication to building a modern, multi-domain, and self-reliant force. It contributes to the nation's ongoing efforts to strengthen its presence in the West Philippine Sea and other maritime areas amid regional tensions.