PH Coast Guard’s Biggest Ship ‘BRP Gabriela Silang’ To Patrol In West Philippine Sea
BRP GABRIELA SILANG – The French-made ship, BRP Gabriela Silang is tagged as the country’s biggest coast guard vessel.
Almost all the countries around the world are aware that the West Philippine Sea was claimed by China, Brunei, Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
But the Republic of China are the ones who have been so aggressive in claiming the disputed islands.
In a previous article, photos of the foreign vessels entering the Philippine exclusive economic zone (EEZ) surfaced online.
It can be seen on the photos that foreign vessels that entered the country’s EEZ are increasing every year.
It’s about time that the government should do something about it.
Based on a report from Manila Bulletin, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) acquired a vessel on September 2014 under the program of Philippine Ports and Coast Guard Capability Development.
On Wednesday, the newest and biggest sea vessel of the Philippine Coast Guard was formally launched in France.
According to the report, the worth P5.6 billion French-made ship will start patrolling in the disputed waters this December.
The 83.6-meter Offshore Patrol Vessel is expected to be delivered in the Philippines on the first week of December. The ship will be named “Barko Ng Pilipinas (BRP) Gabriela Silang.”
The Philippine Coast Guard their newest ship is the largest and most modern sea vessel. It is capable of sailing even in bad weather and has less radar reflect ability.
BRP Gabriela Silang can sail for 22 days and has a speed of 20 knots max speed. It can carry 64 men and a helicopter.
Aside from patrolling in the disputed waters, it will also be used in Benham Rise for maritime patrol activities and utilized against terrorism and piracy in the lower part of the country.
Based on the report, the launching of the BRP Gabriela Silang will be attended by Admiral Elson Hermogino, Captain Ferdinan Picar, Captain Armando Balilo, DOTr officials, Coast Guard spokesperson and Maritime Industry Authority.
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