The Philippine Navy’s second 3,200-ton frigate, BRP Diego Silang, was officially launched at Hyundai Heavy Industries’ (HHI) headquarters in Ulsan, South Korea, on Thursday (March 27).HD Hyundai Heavy Industries 

Coinciding with the 75th anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War, the Philippines has launched its 3,200-ton frigate BRP Diego Silang at Hyundai Heavy Industries' (HHI) shipyard in Ulsan, Korea on Friday, March 27.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines said the launch serves as a reminder of the two countries' strong friendship and shared history as Filipino troops had helped South Korean army in the past.

Among the event attendees where AFP Chief of Staff Romeo Brawner Jr., Philippine Navy Flag Officer-in-Command Vice Admiral Jose Ezpeleta, and Defense Undersecretary Salvador Melchor Mison Jr. 

HHI CEO Lee Sang Kyun also graced the activity.

PH, South Korea reaffirm 'strong defense partnership'

BRP Diego Silang's sister ship BRP Miguel Malvar has departed Korea today and will arrive at the Subic Shipyard come April 8, the AFP said.

"Both vessels, equipped with advanced weapons and radar systems, are part of the Philippine Navy’s ₱28-billion modernization contract with HHI, signed in 2021," the Philippine Army said.

"These warships significantly enhance the country’s naval capabilities amid growing security challenges in the West Philippine Sea," it added.

The AFP said the two ships "reinforces the Philippines’ commitment to regional stability and defense cooperation with South Korea."