PNoy orders PH warship to EEZ

By on 6:30 AM

Source: interaksyon.com

MANILA, Philippines -- President Benigno Aquino III has ordered the military to deploy the Navy's newly-acquired BRP Gregorio del Pilar within the country's exclusive economic zone to secure areas with existing energy service contracts as well as defend the country's territory.

The country's EEZ covers Recto Bank (Reed Bank) which has been the subject of recent Chinese incursions, prompting the Philippines to file diplomatic protests.

"Without doubt, the arrival of BRP Gregorio del Pilas will infuse fresh strength and vigor to our Armed Forces," Aquino said on Tuesday after receiving and touring the 378-foot vessel that arrived after several weeks of voyage from Hawaii.

Aquino said the former United States Coast Guard vessel, which was bought for P517 million, will patrol the country's EEZ and protect service contract areas of the Department of Energy.

The Hamilton Class cutter can also be used for search and rescue missions as well as to interdict foreign elements that would attempt to enter the country.

The vessel can carry up to 180 crew members and runs at 26 knots per hour, the fastest in the Navy's fleet.

Classified as a surface combatant ship, it is equipped with a helicopter flight deck, a retractable hangar,