The Philippine Navy, through BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG-06), participated in the Naval Surface Fire Support (NSFS) Rodeo, a live-fire gunnery competition held as part of the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2026 exercise off the coast of Hawaii on July 14.

The competition brought together 14 allied naval warships to assess naval gunfire accuracy and system performance. BRP Miguel Malvar was the fourth ship to fire during the event, using its Oto Melara 76mm Super Rapid Multi-Feeding main gun against a virtual two-dimensional land target located more than 3.5 miles away.

According to the Philippine Navy, the ship completed both the practice and record firing phases of the competition. The Pacific Missile Range Facility will evaluate the results, with final performance reports to be released later. Ships with the smallest average distance from the target across five salvos will be declared the winners. Awards will be presented during the RIMPAC closing ceremony on July 31.

In addition to the competition, the NSFS Rodeo included training on targeting procedures, range safety and communications between spotters and firing ships under a joint fire plan. Naval surface fire support is used to provide fire support during amphibious operations, including the suppression of coastal defenses and support for landing forces.

The Philippine Navy is participating in RIMPAC 2026 as part of its efforts to enhance operational readiness and interoperability with allied and partner navies.

Photos courtesy of Philippine Navy