The Philippine Navy has recently deployed its BRP Rafael Pargas (PC-379) to enhance coastal patrol and defense operations across the Visayas region.
The patrol vessel officially joined Naval Task Force 50 led by acting commander Captain Welmer Base under Joint Task Force SEAGULL during a ceremony Friday at Naval Base Rafael Ramos in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu.
Ahead of its arrival, the BRP Rafael Pargas was welcomed at sea by BRP Enrique Jurado (PC-371) through a traditional passing exercise, signifying mutual respect and operational coordination.
Base Captain Veloso Pier praised the officers and crew for their safe transit and emphasized the ship’s role in ensuring the security of Visayan waters.
According to the Navy, BRP Rafael Pargas is equipped with advanced surveillance and interdiction capabilities.
The Jose Andrada-class patrol craft is expected to support the Navy’s mission to safeguard vital sea lanes and deter threats in central Philippine waters.
The vessel was named after Rafael Pargas, a graduate of the US Naval Academy, who became the executive officer for Donald Blackburn‘s World War II guerrilla force.