Ang Pahayagan

The Philippine Fleet (PF) added another piece to the Acero-class patrol gunboats following the Christening and Commissioning Ceremony held at Commodore Divino Pier of Philippine Navy headquarters in Manila.

Acting PF Commander, Commo. Juario Marayag joined the Navy Chief, Vice Adm. Toribio Adaci Jr., who graced the event as the guest honor and speaker. The latter’s wife, Mercy Khristin, also served as the lady sponsor who initiated the traditional breaking of sacrificial bottle of wine on the new fast attack interdiction craft (FAIC) platform.

The FAIC was formally inducted as Barko ng Republika ng Pilipinas Tomas Campo (PG-908), named after a Philippine Marine Corps hero and Medal of Valor recipient, the late Sergeant Tomas Campo, who displayed exceptional courage and heroism at Yangan River, Munai, Lanao del Norte.

In his remarks, Vice Adm. Adaci Jr. highlighted the purpose-built design of PG-908, noting that “its speed and precision are projected to boost our ability to navigate narrow straits and complex island networks, extending our operational reach and enhancing our capacity to monitor interdiction and respond swiftly to emergencies.”

He also acknowledged the officers and crew of BRP Tomas Campo, urging them to “sail strong, sail safe, and always keep in mind that they are the defenders of our seas.”

PG-908 joins the Acero-class patrol gunboats as the 8th in its class, alongside the frontrunners BRP Nestor Acero (PG-901) and BRP Lolinato To-ong (PG-902), which were commissioned in November 2023.