The Philippine defense department announced on Tuesday, the arrival of the BRP Miguel Malvar, the first of two advanced corvette-class warships, part of a 2021 deal with South Korea's Hyundai Heavy Industries.
The 3,200-ton vessel enhances the country's naval capabilities amid rising tensions with Beijing over the South China Sea. Its sister ship, the BRP Diego Silang, was launched last month but has not yet arrived in the Philippines. The ships are designed to protect other vessels and support joint operations with allies. In addition, the Philippine Coast Guard welcomed 20 Australian surveillance drones.
Philippine defense chief Gilberto Teodoro highlighted the ship's importance, stating the warship arrived "not only to serve as a deterrent and protector of our waters but also as an important component in joint and combined operations."
