Navy commissions second missile-capable frigate BRP Antonio Luna

President Rodrigo Duterte on Friday welcomed the commissioning of the Philippine Navy's second missile-capable frigate, the BRP Antonio Luna (FF151).

In his virtual message, Duterte reaffirmed the strong commitment of the transformation, modernization, innovation and pursuit of high standards in the country's naval services.

"My warmest greetings to the Philippine Navy as it spearheads the commissioning of BRP Antonio Luna. May General Antonio Luna's bravery and patriotism inspire the officers and crew of this new ship as you prepare for your future sails," Duterte said.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, who attended the commissioning and christening ceremony at the Pier 13 in South Harbor, Manila, said much is expected from the Navy's second frigate, "with its state of the arm features for anti-surface warfare, anti-air warfare, anti-submarine warfare and electronic warfare operations."

"It is considered as one of the Philippine Navy's powerful assets, of course kasama na 'yung BRP Jose Rizal," Lorenzana said.

"The commissioning of the BRP Antonio Luna and her sister ship BRP Jose Rizal marks the advent of our future fleet towards having a modernized and multi capable Philippine Navy, one that is ready to respond to the increasing and emerging threats in our vast archipelagic nation," he added.

BRP Antonio Luna is said to be deployed in the West Philippine Sea to protect the country's fisherfolk and water resources.

The Navy had said BRP Antonio Luna would complete the PN Frigate Acquisition Project that fulfills the goal of having modern platforms and systems. — Anna Felicia Bajo/RSJ, GMA News