Manila: The Philippine Navy (PN) announced it will deploy the BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG-06), one of its most modern guided-missile frigates, along with an AW-159 "Wildcat" anti-submarine warfare helicopter, to participate in the US Navy's "Rim of the Pacific" (RIMPAC) drills. These exercises are scheduled to commence in late June.
According to Philippines News Agency, the PN is set to join the 30th iteration of RIMPAC, which will run from June 24 to July 21, 2026, around the Hawaii Islands, United States. PN spokesperson Capt. Marissa Martinez stated that the biennial RIMPAC drills aim to enhance interoperability and maritime partnership among participating nations, while improving collective readiness across various operations. The theme for this year's exercises is 'Partners: Integrated and Prepared.'
Capt. Martinez highlighted that the BRP Miguel Malvar and its personnel will represent the PN in the exercises. She also mentioned that, for the first time, the Philippine Coast Guard will participate with the BRP Gabriela Silang (OPV-8831).
Send-off ceremonies for the BRP Miguel Malvar and its crew are scheduled for June 4 at Quay 7, Naval Operating Base Subic-Zambales. The ship will make fueling stops in Guam and Hawaii during its journey.
The US Pacific Fleet indicated that this year's RIMPAC will involve 31 nations and a multinational force comprising approximately 40 surface ships, five submarines, 140 aircraft, and over 25,000 personnel. The exercises will cover a range of capabilities, including amphibious operations, gunnery and missile proficiency, anti-submarine warfare, air defense exercises, military medicine, humanitarian assistance and disaster response, counter-piracy, mine clearance, explosive ordnance disposal, and diving and salvage operations.
