The Philippine Navy is currently conducting a series of tests for the operational readiness and capability (ORAC) of BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG06), its newest and most modern warship, in Western Command’s (WESCOM) joint area of operation.
BRP Miguel Malvar was acquired by the Armed Forces of the Philippines from South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) as part of its modernization program and the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept.
It is the first of its class and arrived ahead of a second vessel expected to be delivered by the fourth quarter of this year, with two more slated for delivery in 2026 and 2027.
WESCOM chief Vice Admiral Alfonso Torres Jr. said the ORAC test is being conducted to ensure that the vessel’s equipment and machinery are in good condition before its deployment.
He said the tests will focus on the four major capabilities of the ship, which include anti-surface, anti-air, anti-submarine, and anti-electronic warfare.
Torres also said he is looking forward to the vessel’s deployment in Wescom’s area of operation.
“Hindi ko pwedeng pangunahan ang higher headquarters pero as the commander of Wsescom, we will request na ma-deploy dito based on our joint operating concept. Kasi hindi lang naman nag-iisa ang Wescom na unified command. Marami pa rin tayong dapat na bigyan ng kapabilidad ng ganitong klaseng barko,” he said in an interview with the media aboard the vessel.
He also said the ORAC will be conducted in the waters of Palawan, with hopes of completing the tests as soon as possible.
“Dito lang sa malapit sa isla ng Palawan within 12 nautical miles in the eastcoast and westcoast. And hindi naman natin kailangang lumayo pa,” he said.
“Hindi natin masasabi (kung hanggang kailan) matapos yung testing na gagawin. Meron tayong sinusunod na mga checklist. And, of course, depende rin sa weather, ico-consider natin lahat ng external factor,” he added.
More capabilities, he explained, are expected in the future, which is why the Armed Forces of the Philippines is continuing its modernization efforts.
He further stated that the Philippine Navy’s modernization is part of the creation of a surface action group.
“Hindi tayo nagbi-build lang ng ilang barko but organizing a surface action group na mayroong war fighting capability,” he said.
