Philippine Navy chief Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta said the Navy has intensified its maritime and air operations to strengthen the country’s territorial defense amid evolving security challenges.
Speaking during the Navy’s 128th foundation anniversary at its headquarters in Manila on Tuesday, Ezpeleta said the service conducted more than 6,620 naval missions from 2025 to the first quarter of 2026, covering nearly one million nautical miles in surface operations.
“In 2025 through the first quarter of 2026, we conducted over 6,620 naval missions, translating to notably covering 972,233.27 nautical miles of surface operations missions, with a total of 152,288 hours of steaming time,” Ezpeleta said.
“These missions have strengthened our assertion of our sovereignty, protecting our territorial integrity, just as we work to uphold the rule of law within our own borders,” he added.
Ezpeleta said the Navy also conducted 1,500 air operations during the same period, logging 4,142 hours of naval air patrol and covering more than half a million nautical miles.
He said the air operations were carried out to secure information “much needed to react to threats and craft policy that redounds to upholding the country’s security and dignity.”
The Navy chief also reported that sealift operations allowed the transport of 6,000 troops, 1,700 civilians, 3.2 million tons of military supplies and equipment, and more than 200,000 tons of civilian cargo.
Ezpeleta said these accomplishments were made possible through the support of President Marcos and the guidance of Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr.
He also cited the Navy’s continuing modernization efforts, including the acquisition of new vessels and defense systems.
Among these is the BRP Rajah Lakandula, a South Korean-built offshore patrol vessel commissioned into service during the anniversary celebration. Ezpeleta also noted the delivery of the BrahMos shore-based anti-ship missile system and the continued development of the Navy’s unmanned systems for air, surface, and underwater warfare.
“As the Flag Officer in Command, I indeed take pride in what we have achieved. Success after success, we have shown what we can do as a unified branch of our Armed Forces,” Ezpeleta said.
“Mr. President, your drive to see to it that our forces are equipped and cared for have clearly translated to mission accomplished and objectives achieved, felt and appreciated by our countrymen,” he added.
Ezpeleta said the Navy’s strategic goal is to strengthen the country’s maritime security in support of national sovereignty and economic stability.
“By addressing territorial defense, maritime domain awareness, and emerging threats and evolving security environment, we contribute to the great mission of nation-building,” he said.
He urged Navy personnel to recommit themselves to modernization, capability development, and professional excellence.
“My call is one of service and professional unity. We must reinforce the core values of honor, duty, and patriotism, encourage respect and camaraderie across all ranks and sectors, and inspire even more men and women to step up and serve with integrity and dedication,” Ezpeleta said.