NFWM Welcomes its Newest Missile-Equipped Patrol Gunboat

21 Juni 2023

BRP Laurence Narag (PG-907) Fast Attack Interdiction Craft (FAIC) (photos: NFWM)

Bagong Calarian, Zamboanga City – On June 18, 2024, Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) celebrated the arrival of the BRP Laurence Narag (PG-907) with an official ceremony at Ensign Majini Pier, NSRE, Bagong Calarian, Zamboanga City. This state-of-the-art patrol gunboat is the latest asset to join the Philippine Navy's fleet.

The ceremony was led by Capt. Hilarion D. Cesista PN(MNSA), Deputy Commander for Fleet Operations, representing RAdm Francisco G. Tagamolila PN, the Commander of NFWM. In his address, Capt. Cesista emphasized the strategic importance of PG-907 in enhancing maritime security in Western Mindanao. "With the arrival of PG-907, she will significantly improve the capability of our naval forces in terms of external defense operation (EDO), internal defense operation and other maritime operations particularly securing the sealines of communication (SLOC)," he stated.

BRP Laurence Narag (PG-907) is a part of the Acero-Class Shaldag Mk V Fast Attack Interdiction Craft (FAIC) series, which features the Spike NLOS (non-line of sight) missile systems. These 32-meter vessels are designed for high-speed operations and precision strikes, significantly boosting the Navy's operational capabilities.

The BRP Laurence Narag (PG-907), along with the BRP Herminigildo Yurong (PG-906), was commissioned on May 21, 2024, at Naval Station Jose Andrada, Roxas Boulevard, Manila. These vessels are named in honor of the late Marine Staff Sgt. Herminigildo Yurong and Marine Cpl. Laurence Narag, both Medal of Valor awardees who sacrificed their lives during the Philippine government's campaign against Moro rebels in Mindanao in 2000.

(NFWM)