Ulsan, Republic of Korea – The Philippine Embassy in Seoul, led by Ambassador-designate Bernadette Therese Fernandez, joined the official launching of the BRP Rajah Lakandula on 20 November 2025 at the HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) shipyard in Ulsan, highlighting the expanding strategic and economic significance of the Philippine–Republic of Korea defense partnership, particularly in the area of defense industrial cooperation. 
Representing the Philippines in the ceremony were Navy Vice Commander MGen Edwin E. Amadar, AFP Vice Chief of Staff LtGen Jimmy D. Larida, and Defense Procurement Service Chief Atty. Effie R. Agsaoay. The Ambassador-designate was also accompanied by officers of the Embassy, First Secretary and Consul Flaureen Dacanay, Third Secretary and Vice Consul Reisha Olavario, and Philippine Defense Attaché to the ROK Col. Don Templonuevo. HD HHI was led by President/COO of Naval & Medium Size Ship Building Business Unit Joo Wonho.

In his remarks, Vice Commander Amadar emphasized that the vessel’s launch demonstrates the Philippine Navy’s commitment to a modern, credible, and self-reliant force capable of safeguarding national and regional stability. He also highlighted that the OPV program reflects the growing trust and cooperation between the Philippines and the ROK, built on shared values and a vision for long-term peace and security.

Designed for long-range and sustained operations, the BRP Rajah Lakandula will support anti-smuggling, anti-piracy, disaster relief, and extended patrols across the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone, significantly expanding Philippine maritime security coverage.

Ambassador-designate Fernandez, in a ceremonial toast, reaffirmed that defense cooperation with the Republic of Korea is now an essential pillar of bilateral relations. She emphasized that naval modernization not only strengthens the Philippines’ security posture but also stimulates economic activity, facilitates technology partnerships, and supports Filipino workers in the ROK’s shipbuilding sector. In her discussions with HHI leadership, the Ambassador-designate commended the early delivery of Philippine vessels and underscored the importance of worker welfare and sustained defense industrial cooperation.

The BRP Rajah Lakandula launch is a tangible example of how strategic defense partnerships can deliver both security capabilities and long-term economic value. The Philippine Embassy will continue to advance these priorities as part of its broader mandate to strengthen PH–ROK strategic partnership in the years ahead. END