BRP Emilio Liwanag ex Chamsuri class patrol boat (all photos : Timawa)
A newly upgraded patrol gunboat is the latest addition to the Navy’s floating assets. The Philippine Navy welcomed this morning, 04 January 2011, PKM 223, a Chamsuri class patrol vessel used by the South Korean Navy in the 1970s.
The upgrade of the vessel which is covered by the AFP Modernization Program includes the installation of communications equipment, replacement of old engines, and enhancement of electrical and auxiliary machinery. The vessel renamed as BRP Emilio S Liwanag (PG 118) has a maximum speed of 31 knots and is capable of the following: surface and air action against enemy forces; interdiction patrol; sealift of platoon size troops with full combat gears in the conduct of ISO; search and rescue within territorial waters; transport of personnel, cargo and civic action operations.
Leading the rites at the Navy Headquarters this morning, 04 January 2010 was Secretary Voltaire T Gazmin witnessed by officers and personnel of the Philippine Navy, together with Mrs Emilia Liwanag Hilado, daughter of the late Capt Emilio Liwanag.
Capt Liwanag born in 1911 in Dagupan City, Pangasinan graduated from the PMA in 1933. He served in the harbor defense force during the Battle of Bataan in World War II. He was awarded the Legion of Merit for services in the Philippine liaison office with the UN Command during the Korean War on 07 October 1952.
Also taking place in the morning was the blessing of the Hall of Flags and Commander’s Lounge. The newly-constructed Hall of Flags showcases the various standards of the Navy’s Fleet-Marine units and will also serve as receiving area for command visitors. The Commander’s Lounge meanwhile will be used as function area for senior officers during conferences and gatherings.
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