Zambales: The Philippine Navy (PN) announced that the upcoming offshore patrol vessel (OPV) BRP Rajah Sulayman (PS-20), along with five other sister ships that are soon to arrive, will significantly enhance the nation's capability to safeguard its maritime zones, including the West Philippine Sea (WPS), and the fisherfolk operating within these waters. 'Our OPVs shall stand as a modern symbol of courage, as they will primarily contribute to safeguarding our maritime domain and patrolling the Philippines' exclusive economic zone,' stated PN flag-officer-in-command Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta during the arrival ceremony of BRP Rajah Sulayman at the Naval Operating Base-Subic.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Navy considers Rajah Sulayman a "future" ship as it has not yet been officially commissioned into the PN service. The PN chief emphasized that these OPVs will support maritime patrols, domain awareness, and law enforcement missions in compliance with international law. "(This) will contribute to the protection of Filipino fisherfolk, and the promotion of safe maritime activities," he added in a statement forwarded Tuesday night.

Ezpeleta further highlighted that Rajah Sulayman's arrival is a strong testament to the Philippines' "relentless drive" toward protecting its territorial integrity, which is essential for safeguarding the country's primary asset-the Filipino people. "We owe them a secure and peaceful future," Ezpeleta stressed.

BRP Rajah Sulayman is the lead ship of the six Rajah Sulayman-class OPVs and marks the first OPV built by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries for the PN. The contract for these ships, signed in 2022, totaled PHP30 billion and is intended for sustained operations, ensuring consistent and responsible naval presence in the country's maritime zones, including the WPS.

Ezpeleta noted, "And to deliver on this, it is our duty to strengthen our Navy to ensure that we can counter new forms of warfare, play an integral role in joint defense within our armed forces, and enhance interoperability with partner and like-minded navies."

The BRP Rajah Sulayman departed from the HD HHI shipyard in Ulsan, South Korea on January 13 and arrived in Zambales waters on January 17.