MANILA, Philippines- Pinagtibay ng Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) nitong Huwebes ang dedikasyon nito sa national sovereignty at defense modernization sa paglulunsad nito ng offshore patrol vessel na BRP Rajah Sulayman (PS-20) sa Ulsan, South Korea nitong Miyerkules.
Sinabi ng AFP na ang launching ay dinaluhan nina AFP chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. at Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) chief operating officer at senior executive vice president Joo Won Ho.
Ipinamalas sa event ang malalim na partnership sa pagitan ng Pilipinas at ng South Korea sa pagpapahusay ng maritime security at self-reliant defense capabilities, ayon sa AFP.
“The launch of Offshore Patrol Vessel No. 1, the BRP Rajah Sulayman, is not merely the unveiling of a new ship—it is a bold declaration of our commitment to maritime security and the defense of our sovereignty,” pahayag ni Brawner.
“This vessel marks a new chapter for the Philippine Navy, reflecting our resolve to enhance our operational capabilities and extend our presence across our vast maritime domain,” dagdag ng opisyal.
Batay sa AFP, ipinangalan ang bagong asset sa matapang na si Rajah Sulayman, na nanindigan laban sa mga banyaga noong pre-colonial times.
“As the nation honors its past, the AFP remains steadfast in shaping a future where freedom is not only celebrated but vigilantly safeguarded,” giit ng AFP. RNT/SA
