The BRP Miguel Malvar, a Philippine Navy frigate built by a Korean shipbuilder, is moored at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam in Honolulu, Hawaii, Tuesday, during the 2026 Rim of the Pacific Exercise. Courtey of Kookbang Ilbo
HONOLULU — Alongside Korean warships drawing crowds at this year’s Rim of the Pacific Exercise (RIMPAC), another vessel built in Korea has been attracting attention — one flying the Philippine flag.
The BRP Miguel Malvar, the Philippine Navy’s newest frigate built by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, entered service a year ago and is taking part in the multinational exercise for the first time.
Capt. Paul Michael P. Hechanova, the ship’s first commanding officer, said the frigate has operated without major problems since its delivery and has met the Philippine Navy’s operational requirements.
“So far, the ship has really met the requirements of the Philippine Navy when it comes to capabilities,” Hechanova told a group of Korean reporters aboard the frigate Tuesday.
