The Philippine Navy’s BRP Tagbanua (LC296) has completed an extensive 2,370.2 nautical mile journey across the archipelago, showcasing the vessel’s crucial role in military operations and supply distribution.
The mission, which spanned from May 27 to June 16, 2024, saw the Tagbanua navigating through key strategic points across the nation.
Beginning in General Santos, the ship embarked on its first leg, transporting an impressive 52 tons of Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) units and equipment to Currimao, Ilocos Norte. This northern delivery highlighted the vessel’s capacity to support military operations across vast distances.
Following its initial voyage, the Tagbanua didn’t rest on its laurels. The ship swiftly pivoted to Cavite, where it loaded an additional 32 tons of AFP resources. These vital supplies were then distributed to multiple destinations including Cebu, Zamboanga, and ultimately Davao City, where the mission concluded.
The successful completion of this multi-stop voyage shows the strategic importance of vessels like the Tagbanua in an archipelagic nation like the Philippines.
As the largest Filipino-made navy ship to date, measuring 51 meters in length with a displacement of 576 tons, the Tagbanua represents a significant achievement in domestic shipbuilding capabilities.
Commissioned in December 2011, this marvel of Filipino engineering boasts an impressive cargo capacity of 110 tons and can maintain a maximum cruising speed of 12 knots.
The ship’s construction was a collaborative effort between Philippine Iron Construction and Marine Works in Jasaan, Misamis Oriental, and Propmech, a Subic-based Filipino company responsible for the engine and propulsion systems.
Despite its proven track record and relatively modest price tag of P178 million, questions arise about the Navy’s acquisition strategy. Maritime experts and defense analysts are now calling for an increase in the fleet of Tagbanua-class vessels, citing their effectiveness in inter-island logistics and military support operations.
As geopolitical tensions in the West Philippine Sea continue to simmer, the importance of a robust and self-reliant naval force becomes increasingly apparent.
Tagbanua’s recent mission not only demonstrates the vessel’s capabilities but also highlights the potential for the Philippines to expand its naval assets through domestic production.