Subic Bay Freeport, Olongapo City
06 August 2013

President Benigno S. Aquino III led the arrival ceremony of BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PF-16), the country’s second Hamilton class cutter after BRP Gregorio del Pilar (PF-15), at the Alava Pier, Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

Formerly known as USCGC Dallas under the US Coast Guard, it was acquired by the Philippines under the Excess Defense Article and Military Assistance Program. BRP Alcaraz was named after Commodore Ramon Alcaraz, a Filipino naval hero who gained distinction during World War II when he shot down three Japanese Zero fighters who tried to attack his ship.

In his speech, President Aquino thanked the crew and officials of BRP Alcaraz for the successful journey to the Philippines of the newly purchased ship. He said that the ship will enhance the Navy’s capabilities in search and rescue operations and protecting the country’s territories. He then challenged the Philippine Navy to always live up to its mandate.

“Isabuhay ninyo ang katapangan at pananagutan ng mga Pilipinong hindi nag-atubiling mag-alay ng dugo’t pawis para sa kapakanan ng kanilang kapwa at bandila,” the President said.

The BRP Alcaraz is a 378-foot long ship that was turned over to the Philippines in May 2012. It is a fitting acquisition for the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ modernization program.

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