by Precie Catherine C. Cuarto
QUEZON CITY, August 25 (PIA) -- “Age is not a factor. It is actually the skill and the capability of the ship, and we are very proud that we have BRB Gregorio del Pilar,” Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesman Commodore Miguel Rodriguez said in today’s Talking Points radio program aired over DZRB Radyo ng Bayan.
According to Rodriguez, the recently acquired US Hamilton class cutter, now turned over to the Philippine Navy and named BRB Gregorio del Pilar, was made in 1975. In 1989, all Hamilton Class vessels of the US underwent a modernization program.
“This means, everything inside the ship such as sensors, gun control system, everything were changed. We can say that this vessel was reborn,” said Rodriguez.
“This is the best example of what Admiral Pama (Alexander) calls an icon of the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” he added.
Also, Rodriguez said the U.S. Navy was impressed with the skills of the 95 Filipino sailors sent to U.S. for training. They are led by Philippine Navy commanding officer Capt. Alberto Cruz in the three-month training which started last February.
Rodriguez said BRB Gregorio del Pilar arrived at Pier 13, South Harbor, Manila, last Tuesday, August 23 and will soon be commissioned and “Filipinized.”
“The white ship will be added with Philippine colors and armaments suitable for the Philippine Navy. After further training for the sailors, a commissioning ceremony for the vessel will be held. After the commissioning ceremonies, the intent is to designate it to our exclusive economic zones, particularly the Malampaya, Palawan,” said Rodriguez.(MYQ/PCCC-PIA GHQ)