Manila: The Philippine Navy (PN) has renumbered the hull or pennant numbers of its ships in line with its ongoing acquisition of more modern surface combatants aimed at boosting its fleet's capabilities.

According to Philippines News Agency, PN spokesperson Capt. Marissa Martinez stated that the renumbering is based on an "update of its internal policy on the designation and classification of naval vessels." This update expands the policy's scope to include modern naval assets and introduces a standardized system for vessel designation and numbering to ensure consistency in the classification, identification, and commissioning of naval platforms.

For example, the PN's first guided missile frigates, the BRP Jose Rizal and BRP Antonio Luna, which formerly had the hull numbers FFG-150 and FFG-151, are now renumbered to FFG-14 and FFG-15, respectively. Capt. Martinez mentioned that when more guided missile frigates are acquired, the hull numbers of these warships will be arranged in order, reflecting the sequential acquisition and integration into the fleet.

The initiative supports the PN's continuing modernization efforts and ensures that its organizational policies remain aligned with the evolving structure of the fleet.