ONE of the Philippine Navy’s guided missile frigates left yesterday for Hawaii to participate in the United States-hosted Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) Exercise, the world’s largest maritime drill.
The BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151) left the Naval Operating Base in Subic, Zambales at around 10:30 a.m. shortly after it was sent off by officials, led by Navy Chief Vice Adm. Adeluis Bordado.
Navy spokesman Cdr. Benjo Negranza said the BRP Antonio Luna is expected to arrive in Hawaii three days before the start of the exercise on June 29. The exercise will run until August 4.
Negranza said the ship will refuel in Guam.
This is the third time the Philippine Navy will take part in the biennial exercise.
During the exercise, Negranza said the BRP Antonio Luna will be involved in shipboard training and humanitarian assistance and disaster response training, among others.
Negranza said the Philippine Navy is participating in the US-led training “for regional stability.”
“It is also part of our commitment to our allied navies for regional cooperation and also to gain best practices. It’s also for naval diplomacy,” said Negranza.
This year’s exercise will involve navies from 26 countries. Aside from the US and the Philippines, also participating are Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Denmark, Ecuador, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Peru, Republic of Korea, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Tonga, and United Kingdom.
