MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Navy will deploy most of its Naval Defense Command (NDC) vessels to strengthen maritime security during the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits scheduled from November 16 to 18.
Navy spokesperson Captain Marissa Martinez said Friday, November 13, that the deployment would focus on securing Manila Bay, its maritime approaches and other strategic waterways near the summit venues.
“The majority of the vessels under the NDC will be deployed to provide maritime security and safeguard Manila Bay, its maritime approaches, and other strategically significant maritime areas during the ASEAN Summit,” Martinez said.
The Naval Defense Command, formerly known as the Fleet Marine Ready Force, is based at Sangley Point in Cavite City.
Martinez confirmed that two of the Navy’s newest offshore patrol vessels, the 2,400-ton BRP Rajah Sulayman (PS-20) and BRP Rajah Lakandula (PS-21), would be among the ships assigned to maritime security operations.
However, she declined to disclose additional operational details, including the exact number of vessels to be deployed.
Earlier, Philippine Navy Public Affairs Office chief Captain Marie Angelica Sisican said the Navy would position key naval assets in Manila Bay as part of the government’s security preparations for the regional gathering.
The deployment aims to strengthen maritime surveillance, safeguard strategic waterways and support the overall security arrangements for visiting ASEAN leaders and delegates.
Sisican said the Navy’s participation would help maintain a safe maritime environment throughout the summit.
Major activities of the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits will take place at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City.
The maritime security deployment forms part of the government’s broader preparations to ensure the safety of participants and the orderly conduct of the international meetings.
