Navy deploys upgraded patrol vessel to Palawan

In a bid to reinforce its forces in the disputed South China Sea, the Philippine Navy deployed the BRP Emilio Jacinto (PS35), one of its upgraded patrol vessels, to Palawan.

The lead ship of the Jacinto-class was recently assigned  to Naval Forces West (NFW) in Palawan and given a send-off ceremony at Captain Salvo Pier, Naval Base Heracleo Alano at Sangley Point in Cavite on Tuesday, February 13.

Offshore Combat Force (OCF) Commander, Commodore Edward Ike De Sagon, oversaw the ceremony for the 712-ton warship.

The Navy said the Jacinto will bolster efforts of safeguarding the maritime domain and interests in the country’s western frontier following the completion of the 42-year old ship’s extensive repair, maintenance and upgrade.

Noting that “tensions continue to simmer in the West Philippine Sea and our strategic interests in the region grow ever more vital,” De Sagon emphasized that the presence of PS35 “will serve as a reminder to all who would dare challenge our sovereignty that we stand ready and vigilant.”

The OCF Commander rallied the departing crew to “reaffirm our dedication to the noble cause for which PS35 sails — the defense of our nation and the protection of our maritime interest.”

The Jacinto will be headed to disputed waters of theSouth China Sea that has seen several incidents with Chinese maritime forces in the past year.—RF, GMA Integrated News