April 8, 2025 (Subic, Zambales) – Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro, Jr. led the arrival ceremony of the future BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG-06), a newly acquired corvette of the Philippine Navy today at the Naval Operating Base in Subic, Zambales.
In his message, Secretary Teodoro emphasized that the arrival of the future BRP Miguel Malvar is a critical step toward developing a self-reliant and credible defense posture.
The Defense Chief outlined four key areas of focus for the Department and the Armed Forces of the Philippines: developing core capabilities and strategic basing, identifying continuous sources of revenue for sustainment, training and education, and integrating domain awareness and multi-threat response systems.
“This includes, not only investing in capabilities, but once again, training capable and competent people in the appropriate technical skills,” Secretary Teodoro said. “Miguel Malvar is here today not only to serve as a deterrent and protector of our waters, but also as an important component in joint and combined operations as we work alongside allies and uphold the norms of international law,” he added.
Secretary Teodoro also acknowledged the enduring partnership with the Republic of Korea, citing their continued support in providing capabilities and investments that promote sustainability, resilience, and job creation. “We thank our reliable partners, the people and the government of the Republic of Korea… not only in providing capabilities, but in building sustainability, redundancy, and resilience through actual capital investments,” he said.
“One of the hallmarks of an investment horizon for this country is the blue economy. How can you develop a blue economy if you do not have a strong navy? You need a strong navy as an anchor, as a backbone, as a spine of the blue economy. So, this is our offering to those that went before us, to the heroes who went before us, who we will honor tomorrow,” Secretary Teodoro elucidated.
Secretary Teodoro echoed a powerful reminder of the Filipino spirit: “Don’t quit, whatever the odds. Filipinos must be proud—we will make our nation proud,” he concluded.
