Manila: The Philippine Navy (PN) will continue to engage with its Italian counterparts who have a "robust shipbuilding" capability as this is in line with the country's Self Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) Revitalization Act. "It is through technology transfers with other like-minded nations that we can build better ships, not only for the Armed Forces but also for the commercial industry," PN spokesperson Capt. John Percie Alcos said in a briefing late Tuesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Capt. Alcos emphasized the importance of interacting with nations that have perfected the capabilities the PN intends to develop. Italy, recognized for having one of the leading shipbuilding industries globally, is a key partner in the PN's ambition to modernize and enhance its naval force. This collaboration aims to bolster the Navy's capacity to secure the nation and contribute to regional peace.

The Navy's broader objective is to develop the ability to manufacture its own warships and other defense capabilities. This aligns with the goals of the SRDP Revitalization Act, or Republic Act 12024, which aims for the Philippines to achieve self-reliance in defense, minimizing dependence on foreign support.

The Act also seeks to ensure the nation has adequate defense assets and hardware through domestic production, manufacturing, and the development of a national defense industry.