Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. welcomes the newly-acquired guided missile corvette for the Philippine Navy as it arrives in Zambales from South Korea on Tuesday.

Teodoro who led the arrival ceremony for the future BRP Miguel Malvar at the Naval Operating Base in Subic stressed that the arrival of the new corvette vessel of the Philippine Navy "is a critical step toward developing a self-reliant and credible defense posture."

“This includes, not only investing in capabilities, but once again, training capable and competent people in the appropriate technical skills,” he said.

"Miguel Malvar is here today not only to serve as a deterrent and protector of our waters, but also as an important component in joint and combined operations as we work alongside allies and uphold the norms of international law,” he added.

In his message, Teodoro also acknowledged the enduring partnership with the Republic of Korea, citing their continued support in providing capabilities and investments that promote sustainability, resilience, and job creation.

“We thank our reliable partners, the people and the government of the Republic of Korea… not only in providing capabilities, but in building sustainability, redundancy, and resilience through actual capital investments,” he said.

The P28 billion contract for the acquisition of BRP Miguel Malvar and its sister ship BRP Diego Silang was signed on Dec. 28 2021.

The two vessels that were manufactured at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) shipyard in Ulsan, South Korea are equipped with weapons and sensors that can be used against anti-surface, anti-submarine, and anti-air warfare. Robina Asido/DMS