Zambales: The Philippine Navy (PN) is set to commission two new ships, an offshore patrol vessel and a fast attack interdiction craft, at the Naval Operating Base-Subic on February 24. These vessels, the BRP Rajah Sulayman (PS-20) and the BRP Audrey Ba±ares (PG-910), mark a significant enhancement in the Navy's operational capabilities.

According to Philippines News Agency, the BRP Rajah Sulayman is the first of six offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) contracted from South Korean shipbuilder HD Hyundai Heavy Industries. It was launched at the shipyard in Ulsan, South Korea, on June 11, 2025, and arrived in the Philippines on January 17 of this year. This vessel is part of a PHP30 billion deal signed in 2022, aimed at strengthening the protection of the country's maritime territories.

The BRP Audrey Ba±ares, meanwhile, is the final ship in a series of nine fast attack interdiction crafts (FAICs) acquired from Israeli Shipyards Limited. Known as Acero-class gunboats, these vessels were commissioned under a PHP10 billion contract issued in February 2021. The FAICs are designed to replace the Philippine Navy's medium-sized patrol craft and bolster the defense of the country's littoral waters.

The christening and commissioning ceremonies for these ships will take place at Quay 7 of the Naval Operating Base-Subic, marking a milestone in the modernization of the Philippine Navy's fleet. These additions are expected to play a crucial role in enhancing maritime security and safeguarding the nation's extensive maritime boundaries.