The Flag Officer In Command, Philippine Navy, Vice Admiral Jose Ma Ambrosio Q Ezpeleta PN and the AFP Commander in Chief, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr troop the line of sailors and marines during the 128th PN Anniversary Celebration on June 9, 2026 at the Navy Headquarters, Manila. (Photo By: Philippine Navy)
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Navy (PN) celebrated its 128th founding anniversary on June 9, 2026, highlighting major strides in modernization and maritime defense, including the commissioning of its newest offshore patrol vessel, BRP Rajah Lakandula (PS21).
Held at Naval Station Jose Andrada in Manila, the anniversary celebration carried the theme, “PN @128: Modern and Ready, Strong and Steady – Credible in Mission, Always Mission-Ready,” and was attended by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who served as Guest of Honor and Speaker.
The commissioning of BRP Rajah Lakandula marked a significant milestone in the Navy’s modernization efforts, strengthening the country’s capability to secure its maritime domain and protect national interests amid evolving regional security challenges.
The crew of the newly-commissioned BRP Rajah Lakandula (PS21) during the 128th PN Anniversary Celebration on June 9, 2026 at the Navy Headquarters, Manila.(Philippine Navy)
President Marcos described the addition of the vessel as a major step toward achieving a modern and self-reliant naval force.
“Truly, this is a pivotal step towards realizing the Navy’s vision of a modern and self-reliant force,” the President said during the ceremony.
Over the past year, the Philippine Navy expanded its operational footprint through sustained maritime patrols and surveillance missions, while reinforcing its role under the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC). The service also enhanced cooperation with regional and international partners through multilateral exercises and security engagements.
Beyond defense operations, the Navy continued to support humanitarian assistance and disaster response missions, as well as civil-military activities that strengthened public trust and community engagement.
The Flag Officer In Command, Philippine Navy, Vice Admiral Jose Ma Ambrosio Ezpeleta PN; the AFP Commander in Chief, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr; Senior Undersecretary of National Defense Irineo Espino aboard the newly-commissioned BRP Rajah Lakandula (PS21) during the 128th PN Anniversary Celebration on June 9, 2026 at the Navy Headquarters, Manila.((Philippine Navy)
The Navy also reported gains in modernization, including the acquisition of new platforms, improvements in cyber defense capabilities, and intensified leadership and personnel development programs. These initiatives aim to transform the service into a multi-domain force capable of addressing both traditional and emerging security threats.
Philippine Navy Flag Officer In Command Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Q. Ezpeleta emphasized that the organization’s efforts remain focused on serving the nation and safeguarding its maritime future.
“Ang lahat ng ating pinagsamang pagsisikap, pagbabantay, pagmamalasakit, at pagtutulungan ay nakatuon sa iisang layunin—para sa bayan, para sa ating karagatan at para sa mas magandang kinabukasan ng sambayanan,” Ezpeleta said.
For his part, President Marcos expressed gratitude to Navy personnel for their dedication and professionalism in carrying out their mission.
“So, I thank you for always keeping our flag flying high even above the roughest waters. For your unwavering loyalty in the face of the storm, I say this: Bravo Zulu. Job well done to you all,” he said.
As it commemorates more than a century of naval service, the Philippine Navy reaffirmed its commitment to defending the country’s maritime interests and called on Filipinos to support its mission of securing the nation’s seas for future generations.
“Sa inyong pagbabantay sa ating karagatan, tangan ninyo hindi lamang ang watawat ng Pilipinas, kundi pati na rin ang tiwala at pag-asa ng sambayanang Pilipino,” the President added.