Taguig city: The decision regarding the acquisition of Japanese Abukuma-class destroyer escorts will depend on several factors, including whether the ships can integrate into the country's current fleet, Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. stated.
According to Philippines News Agency, Teodoro recently discussed the potential transfer of these Japanese naval ships to the Philippine Navy (PN) with Navy Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta. The Defense Secretary mentioned that an invitation to inspect the ships has been extended, but the decision will rest on their compatibility with the existing fleet and integration feasibility. Teodoro is awaiting a comprehensive report before making any decisions.
Teodoro also highlighted that any potential expenditures on the Philippine side will be a crucial consideration. During a media briefing at the Pacific Amphibious Leaders Symposium (PALS) 2025 at Bonifacio Global City, he emphasized the need to evaluate costs related to weaponization, interoperability, and secure communication for these vessels.
The Japanese warships could potentially add five vessels to the fleet, while the country is still awaiting the delivery of eight ships currently being built in South Korea. These include two Malvar-class guided missile frigates and six offshore patrol vessels (OPVs). The BRP Miguel Malvar was delivered in early April and commissioned on May 21, with its counterpart, the BRP Diego Silang, expected soon. OPV deliveries are anticipated next year.
Teodoro also mentioned ongoing efforts to construct onshore facilities to support these incoming ships. He stressed the urgency of the strategic basing initiative, which is expected to commence soon, given the current lack of docking facilities for the new vessels.
The Philippine Navy has confirmed the possibility of receiving the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's Abukuma-class destroyer escorts. Preparations for a "Joint Visual Inspection" are underway. These destroyer escorts, designed for anti-submarine and anti-ship warfare, align with the Philippine Navy's operational requirements for maritime domain protection. A PN delegation is set to conduct a detailed inspection, which will inform further decisions regarding the acquisition and its fit with the Navy's modernization plans.
In his keynote address at PALS 2025, Teodoro emphasized the importance of building trust-based alliances to maintain regional peace and stability amid evolving threats. He advocated for partnerships founded on collective action and shared purpose to deter unilateral attempts to alter the global order.
Teodoro also reaffirmed the Philippines' commitment to sovereignty, international law, and a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region. He highlighted the country's dedication to the United Nations Charter and the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, resisting coercive attempts to undermine national rights.
PALS 2025, held from July 8 to 10, brings together senior Marine Corps officers, naval infantry, and military leaders from allied and partner nations across the Indo-Pacific. Now in its 25th iteration, the symposium serves as a crucial platform for fostering relationships and strategic dialogue within the region's amphibious and maritime community.
