Navy to deploy BRP Antonio Luna to Naval Forces West

The Philippine Navy is looking to deploy its second missile-capable frigate, the BRP Antonio Luna (FF151), to Naval Forces West for its first mission since arriving in the country.

According to the Navy, the frigate will be deployed once it has completed its logistical fill-up.

Naval Forces West, based in Palawan, is the Navy component of the military's Western Command.

During its send-off in Manila on Thursday, Flag Officer In Command Rear Admiral Adelius Bordado encouraged the sailors and officers of the BRP Antonio Luna to “sail boldly.”

"I want you to know how much pride and honor you carry and magnify for the entire Command by carrying the Philippine flag during your first and most challenging mission yet," Bordado said in a statement.

"Make waves bow and winds obey," he added.

Meanwhile, the Navy also held a simple send-off ceremony for the frigate at Pier 13 with Bordado as the presiding officer and Fleet commander Rear Admiral Alberto Carlos in attendance, among others.

The Navy welcomed the frigate on January 9.

It was recently declared a high state of operational readiness after successfully complying with all pre-deployment requirements, according to the Navy.

The Navy previously said that the BRP Antonio Luna will be deployed in the West Philippine Sea to protect the country's fisherfolk and water resources. — Joahna Lei Casilao/BM, GMA News