The Philippine Navy is set to strengthen its maritime capabilities with the addition of a new guided missile frigate currently undergoing sea trials in South Korean waters, according to Oriental Mindoro Congressman Arnan Panaligan, vice-chairman of the House Committee on West Philippine Sea.

The warship, to be named BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG 06), was built by Hyundai Heavy Industries of South Korea and is scheduled for delivery in April 2025.

The BRP Miguel Malvar is named after a Filipino general who fought in the Philippine-American War.

Once commissioned, it will join the Philippine Navy’s fleet as its newest and most technologically advanced vessel.

A second vessel of the same class is also under construction and expected to be delivered in 2026.

“The two warships will be equipped with state of the art sensors and lethal guided missile weaponry,” Panaligan said in a Facebook post.

The acquisition was announced amid growing tensions in the West Philippine Sea, where the country has faced increasing threats to its maritime claims from a giant China.

The Philippine government has been working to modernize its naval forces in recent years to better patrol and defend its territorial waters.

During a budget hearing for the Armed Forces of the Philippines last year, Panaligan questioned defense officials about their planned expenditures.

“I interpellated the defense and military officials on how their budgetary allocations will be utilized and they replied that, among others, it will be used to equip our new warships with missile weaponry and to procure two additional guided missile frigates for the Navy,” Panaligan revealed.

Military analysts note that the addition of guided missile frigates is a major upgrade for the Philippine Navy, which has historically operated with limited offensive capabilities compared to other naval forces in Southeast Asia.