Future BRP Diego Silang Meets BRP Gabriela Silang

NAVAL STATION JOSE ANDRADA, Manila — The Philippine Navy’s second Miguel Malvar-class frigate, the future BRP Diego Silang (FFG-07) carried out a coordinated meeting procedure with the Philippine Coast Guard’s BRP Gabriela Silang (OPV-8301) as the former is underway in Philippine waters on September 8, 2025, off the coast of Zambales, marking a significant event for both maritime forces.
Rear Admiral Joe Anthony Orbe PN, Commander of the Philippine Fleet, oversaw the procedure, while his son, Coast Guard Ensign Joshua Orbe, participated aboard BRP Gabriela Silang as part of his ongoing schooling on ship familiarization.
More than a routine encounter, the meeting of these vessels honors the legacy of Diego and Gabriela Silang, symbolizing the spirit of heroism and unity that guides the Philippine Navy and Philippine Coast Guard in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty.
The coordinated procedure also reinforced fleet interoperability, operational readiness, and the Navy’s modernization efforts, while highlighting the human side of service and the shared dedication of generations of maritime officers. (Philippine Navy)