BRP Gregorio Del Pilar to be Operational in July: Navy

19 Februari 2021

BRP Gregorio Del Pilar (photo : PN)

MANILA – The offshore patrol vessel, BRP Gregorio Del Pilar (PS-15), which was damaged after a grounding incident last 2018, is expected to be operational by July this year.

"BRP Gregorio Del Pilar (PS-15) is expected to be operational by July this year, after completion of her repairs," Philippine Navy chief, Vice Adm. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo said.

One of the ship's two variable pitch propellers was damaged along with its propeller hub following its grounding off Hasa-Hasa Shoal in August 2018.

The PN earlier said difficulties in procuring parts and the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic have moved the completion of the repairs of the BRP Gregorio Del Pilar to the second quarter of 2021.

Before the pandemic, the propeller hub for the ship was expected to arrive in July with repairs and upgrades completion slated in the fourth quarter of 2020.

At present, the BRP Gregorio Del Pilar is still on drydock in Subic Bay, Zambales. 

(PNA)