Former finance sec, private sector move to save the PH navy

By Donna Z Pazzibugan

Philippine Daily Inquirer, Tuesday, May 24, 2011

MANILA, Philippines—Prominent figures in politics, business and civil society, led by former Finance Secretary Jesus Estanislao, have taken up the cudgels for the Philippine Navy by leading a fund-raising and support drive.

They have taken it upon themselves to organize a foundation that seeks to marshal support and resources from the private sector to support the Navy’s modernization and capability-building programs.

They would serve as the founding board of trustees of the “Support Your Navy Foundation”, which was formally launched Tuesday during the Navy’s 113rd anniversary rites.

The multi-sectoral group, however, has served as board of advisers to the Navy since last year.

“We accepted the invitation of the Flag Officer in Command (Vice Admiral Alexander Pama) to serve as board of advisers to save the Navy because we wanted to bring down the many walls keeping the various sectors of society apart,” Estanislao told Navy officers and personnel during the anniversary program.

“We decided to take the lead … We want to say that our Philippine Navy can not do it alone. Our Navy needs the support of all sectors,” added Estanislao, who is chairman of the Institute for Solidarity in Asia.

In his own speech, Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin did not mince words as he described the Navy’s state as “truly deplorable” since it has no modern ships and vessels, and hardly any aircraft. The Navy is still using 65-year-old warships from World War II.

“We have thus solicited the support of our stakeholders through the representation of the members of the Navy board of advisers, like-minded professionals who believe in the advocacies of the Navy,” Pama said during the anniversary.

He said the board of advisers has “voluntarily champion(ed) such well-meaning cause through their wise counsel and sound advice on the Navy’s strategic concerns.”

Estanislao said the Support your Navy Foundation would serve as a “major bridge” between the Navy and the private sector to achieve the Navy Sail Plan goal of becoming a “strong and credible Navy” by 2020.

“We believe that together we can become a great maritime nation. We hope we can contribute to a strong Navy,” he said.

The other members of the foundation’s board of trustees are former senator Leticia Shahani; Development Bank of the Philippines president Francisco Del Rosario; Budget Undersecretary Mario Relampagos; National Economic and Development Authority Deputy Director General Margarita Songco; newspaper columnist Jarius Bondoc, former defense undersecretary and Asia Pacific Security Forum president Rodel Cruz; retired vice admiral Eduardo Santos; Asian Architects co-managing partner Miguel Guerrero; University of the Philippines professor Aileen Baviera; lawyer Antonio Oposa; and Doris Magsaysay-Ho of the Magsaysay Group of Companies.

Pama and Capt. Augustus Iglesia who is director of the Naval Resource Management Office, will serve as ex-officio trustees.

Capt. Giovanni Bacordo, director of the Center for Naval Leadership and Excellence, said the foundation would help fund Navy programs since seventy per cent of their budget goes to personnel salaries, while the rest goes to maintenance and operating expenses so there is hardly left for capital outlay.

“Through this foundation, we will no longer be one hundred per cent dependent on the GAA (General Appropriations Act) for the things we need,” he said.

Bacordo said donations to be raised by the foundation may include equipment upgrades, scholarships for Navy personnel, housing facilities and other morale and welfare programs.

He said the foundation would be registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission in June or July.

Navy spokesman Lt. Col. Omar Tonsay said through the foundation, well-meaning private groups and individuals could actively participate in the Navy’s programs.

newsinfo.inquirer.net

P.H.-U.S. balikatan Exercise 2011 set

By Elena Aben

Manila Bulletin, Tuesday, March 29,2011

The Philippine Navy geared up for PH-US Balikatan exercise 2011 on April 5-15, 2011 in Central Luzon and Southern Tagalog areas where Philippine sailors and marines will engage their American counterparts in a series of drills, both on land and at sea, aimed at promoting interoperability between the armed forces of the two two countries. Capt. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo, Navy spokesman, said the PN's air and surface assets manned by sailors and aviators will see action in a series o maneuvers and evolutions at sea, while PN SEALS will be involved in Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) exercises. Meanwhile, the Philippine Marines will be trained in amphibious landing/raid with their US counterparts.

Balikatan Exercise 2011 set in April

Sunstar, Monday, March 28, 2011

THE Philippine Navy is gearing up for Balikatan Exercise 2011 set on April 5 to 15 2011 in Central Luzon and Southern Tagalog areas.

The Navy’s sailors and marines will meet with their US counterparts in a series of drills, both on land and at sea, to promote interoperability between the two armed forces, said Navy spokesman Captain Giovanni Carlo Bacordo.

Bacordo said the Navy’s air and surface assets manned by sailors and aviators will see action in a series of maneuvers and evolutions at sea, while Navy’s SEALs will be involved in Explosive Ordnance Disposal exercises.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Marines will be trained in amphibious landing/raid with their US counterparts.

Fleet-Marine officers will also be involved in the Rapid Response Planning Process (R2P2) aboard a US Navy ship while enroute from South Harbor, Manila to Subic Bay.

Navy chief Rear Admiral Alexander Pama earlier vowed to work on the acquisition of important naval hardware such as the MRV, off-shore patrol vessels, multi-purpose helicopters and amphibious assault vessels and other equipment.

Aside from the drills and professional exchanges between the two armed forces, the Philippines and the US will also field in military doctors, nurses, and other medical workers to conduct free medical and dental services to local residents in the exercise venues.

Likewise, military engineers will also be involved in construction projects during the Balikatan.

sunstar.com

Rescue Operations

By Elena Aben

Manila Bulletin, Monday, March 28, 2011

Elements of the 3rd Marine Brigade and the Philippine National Police (PNP) jointly conducted rescue operations to bring to safety residents of several villages in Jolo that were hit by flashfloods brought about by heavy rains last weekend. Navy Spokesman, Capt. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo, quoting reports reaching the Navy headquarters on Roxas Boulevard, Manila, said that the flashfloods happened at the villages of Austrias, Alat, Tulay, Takut-Takut, Chinese Pier, Waleld and San Raymundo in the municipality of Jolo. According to reports, the floods in some parts of the town went as high as neck-deep. The flooding was reported caused by heavy rains that started Friday afternoon.

Navy cites Filipinos in sailing tilt

By Elena L Aben

The Manila Bulletin Newspaper Online, Thursday, March 24, 2011

MANILA, Philippines — The Navy takes pride in the feat of its four personnel who are members of the Philippine sailing team which recently garnered the championship crown in the recent Subic-Boracay Race that also saw teams from the US, Australia, New Zealand, and Hong Kong, a Navy spokesman said last Tuesday.

Capt. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo said First Class Petty Officer (PO1) Rico V. Albeso, Seaman First Class (SN) Joel Mejarito, 3rd Class Petty Officer (PO3) Ridgely Balladares and Third Class Petty Officer (PO3) Rommel Chavez sailed to victory in the IRC Cruiser/Racer Class and IRC Racing Class, respectively in the February 19-21, 2011 races.

Bacordo said Albeso and Mejarito belonged to the IRC Cruiser/Racer Class joining six other individuals in this category, while Balladares and Chavez joined 12 others in their Racing Class category.

The four are assigned with the Philippine Fleet in Sangley Point, Cavite City.

Except for Mejarito, the rest are veteran sailors who have competed in races both here and abroad. The four are the only AFP personnel in the Philippine Sailing team.

Bacordo said the four were also members of the Philippine team that topped the 1st Australian Nationals in Albany in 2010. Following this race, the team placed 2nd in the World Mirror Championship, also in Australia.

"The Subic-Boracay Race is one of the “exposure” races before the Philippine Team competes for the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Palembang, Indonesia in November this year," said Bacordo.

The Navy spokesman added that the “exposure” races put the team in high gear as they aim for gold medal in the SEA Games. The Philippine team’s lone gold medal came during the 1991 SEA Games in Manila. Albeso was already part of the winning team.

"Next stop for the four and the Philippine team is the Commodore’s Cup in Subic in April. The sailing team is also slated to compete in Singapore in June, Hong Kong in August, and Japan in October," said Bacordo.

The Manila Bulletin Newspaper Online

Navy opens PPPO to leaseits assets for AFP modernization

By Mario J Mallari

The Daily Tribune, Tuesday, March 15, 2011

The Navy leadership yesterday formally opened its Public-Private Partnership Office (PPPO) as part of the efforts to lease out some of its assets, which was supported by no less than the Commander in Chief President Aquino, to generate funds for its modernization.

Commodore Edgar Abogado, chief of the Naval Staff, presided over the formal activation of the PPPO, Naval Human Rights Office (NHRO), and the Navy’s Protocol Office (PNPO). Representatives from the Department of Finance joined the Navy command team during the ceremonies.

Navy spokesman Capt. Giovani Carlos Bacordo said that the PPP Office is in line with the Navy’s initiative of leasing out some properties at the Navy Headquarters, Fort Bonifacio and other real estate in naval bases and stations in the country, to generate funds for its modernization.

It can be recalled that during his first State of the Nation Address in July 2010, President Aquino advocated the Navy’s plan for public-private partnership.

“Funds generated from this venture will finance the acquisition of modern ships and equipment for sailors and marines,” said Bacordo.

On the other hand, Bacordo said that cognizant of the importance of human rights and its preservation, the Navy also activated the HRO as called for by the military’s internal peace and security plan (IPSP) “Bayanihan” for the promotion of human rights.

“The office aims to safeguard and ensure that human rights of the people and Navy personnel, as well as of its stakeholders are well-respected and preserved,” said Bacordo.

Before yesterday’s ceremony, Bacordo said that the HRO has already distributed copies of the HR handbook among PN personnel to educate them on human rights issues.

Meanwhile, the PN Protocol Office will be handling protocol and etiquette matters. It is envisioned to preserve customs, traditions, and ideals of the Navy.

“The discipline and high character it promotes will ensure precision in personal habits and daily living worthy of naval profession,” said Abogado.

In his keynote speech, Abogado congratulated the new heads of the three offices and expressed his confidence on their performance.

“I know there will be difficulties and birthpains in handling these offices but with the managerial expertise and competence that you embody, I am certain that you will surpass them all,” he said.

Abogado also exhorted Navy personnel to accord their support and coordination to the newly created offices. “Let us all remember that we are all working for the attainment for a similar goal, which is to have a strong and credible Navy that our maritime nation can be proud of.”

Navy activates 3 new offices

By Alexis Romero

The Philippine Star, Tuesday, March 15, 2011

The Navy activated yesterday three new offices including a body that will study proposals on how to tap the private sector to fund its modernization program.

Navy spokesman Capt. Giovanni Bacordo said activated were the Public-Private Partnership Office (PPPO), the Naval Human Rights Office, and the Philippine Navy Protocol Office.

Bacordo said the PPPO is in line with the government’s plan to lease some of its properties to support its capability upgrade program.

“The PPPO will study the proposals of the proponents. It will assess the plans related to the public-private partnership,” he told The STAR in a phone interview.

Bacordo said the PPPO will be led by the Navy vice commander, a post currently held in an acting capacity by Fleet Commander Rear Adm. Jose Luis Alano.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Act, which took effect in 1995, has given the military the opportunity to modernize in 15 years with a total fund of P331 billion.

More than 16 years have passed since the law was enacted but critics said the AFP is not even close to a modern battle force. The delay in the implementation of the law has been attributed to lack of state funds.

During his first State of the Nation Address last July, President Aquino said he is studying a proposal to lease military lots to support AFP modernization.

He said this will allow the military to procure equipment without bloating the deficit, which is expected to hit P290 billion this year.

At least six firms have expressed interest in the project, including Malaysian Resources Corp. Berhad, which submitted a proposal that would involve the lease of a 33-hectare property at Fort Bonifacio.

Navy data showed that out of the 53 patrol ships in the inventory, only 25 are operational. These patrol ships are of the average age of 36.4 years old. The bigger of these vessels like the minesweeper frigates and patrol craft escorts are 66 and 67 years, old respectively.

Only two of the seven Navy transport vessels are operational and are already 15 years old. The non-operational vessels are 64 years old.

On the other hand, only four of the 10 Navy auxiliary ships are operational. From among the 32 small crafts, 23 are operational and are of an average age of 21.3 years old.

The Navy also activated its Human Rights Office in compliance with the military’s policy to educate troops about existing humanitarian laws.

“The office aims to safeguard and ensure that human rights of the people and Navy personnel, as well as of its stakeholders are well-respected and preserved,” Bacordo said.

The office will be headed by Lt. Col. Jesulito Calimag.

On the other hand, the Protocol Office will be tasked “to preserve customs, traditions, and ideals” of the Navy.

The office, which aims to promote discipline among Navy personnel, will be led by Cmdr. Carlos Sabarre.

Navy activates 3 new offices

By Alexis Romero

The Philippine Star, Sunday, March 15, 2011

MANILA, Philippines - The Navy activated yesterday three new offices including a body that will study proposals on how to tap the private sector to fund its modernization program.

Navy spokesman Capt. Giovanni Bacordo said activated were the Public-Private Partnership Office (PPPO), the Naval Human Rights Office, and the Philippine Navy Protocol Office.

Bacordo said the PPPO is in line with the government’s plan to lease some of its properties to support its capability upgrade program.

“The PPPO will study the proposals of the proponents. It will assess the plans related to the public-private partnership,” he told The STAR in a phone interview.

Bacordo said the PPPO will be led by the Navy vice commander, a post currently held in an acting capacity by Fleet Commander Rear Adm. Jose Luis Alano.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Act, which took effect in 1995, has given the military the opportunity to modernize in 15 years with a total fund of P331 billion.

More than 16 years have passed since the law was enacted but critics said the AFP is not even close to a modern battle force. The delay in the implementation of the law has been attributed to lack of state funds.

During his first State of the Nation Address last July, President Aquino said he is studying a proposal to lease military lots to support AFP modernization.

He said this will allow the military to procure equipment without bloating the deficit, which is expected to hit P290 billion this year.

At least six firms have expressed interest in the project, including Malaysian Resources Corp. Berhad, which submitted a proposal that would involve the lease of a 33-hectare property at Fort Bonifacio.

Navy data showed that out of the 53 patrol ships in the inventory, only 25 are operational. These patrol ships are of the average age of 36.4 years old. The bigger of these vessels like the minesweeper frigates and patrol craft escorts are 66 and 67 years, old respectively.

Only two of the seven Navy transport vessels are operational and are already 15 years old. The non-operational vessels are 64 years old.

On the other hand, only four of the 10 Navy auxiliary ships are operational. From among the 32 small crafts, 23 are operational and are of an average age of 21.3 years old.

The Navy also activated its Human Rights Office in compliance with the military’s policy to educate troops about existing humanitarian laws.

“The office aims to safeguard and ensure that human rights of the people and Navy personnel, as well as of its stakeholders are well-respected and preserved,” Bacordo said.

The office will be headed by Lt. Col. Jesulito Calimag.

On the other hand, the Protocol Office will be tasked “to preserve customs, traditions, and ideals” of the Navy.

The office, which aims to promote discipline among Navy personnel, will be led by Cmdr. Carlos Sabarre.

philstar.com

Navy eyes purchase of coast guard cutter from US (Philippines)

By Alexis Romero

The Philippine Star, Monday, January 24, 2011

MANILA, Philippines - The Navy plans to acquire a Hamilton-class cutter from the United States to boost its capability to conduct patrols and rescue missions.

Navy chief Rear Adm. Alexander Pama said officials are now negotiating with their US counterparts for the acquisition of the ship.

“There are negotiations for the possible acquisition of a US Coast Guard cutter. It will definitely boost (our capability) a lot given this is a weather heavy endurance cutter,” Pama told reporters over the weekend.

He said they are still threshing out details of the acquisition of the vessel, which is used to conduct patrols in the high seas.

“We are still discussing this. Nothing is final. We are in the stage where there is understanding already. We will formally send a letter request,” the Navy chief said.

A cutter is a high-speed vessel that can cut through waves. If the acquisition pushes through, the ship would be the first Hamilton-class cutter in the Navy’s inventory.

Navy spokesman Capt. Giovanni Bacordo said the ship might arrive in the country within the first semester of this year.

He said the US Coast Guard cutter would become their largest ship once it becomes part of their assets.

“It (cutter) would be our largest ship at 380 ft. long. At present, our largest surface combatant, BRP Rajah Humabon, is only 308 feet long,” Bacordo said.

Navy officials declined to say whether the US would donate the cutter and how much the ship costs. Pama, however, said the Philippines might shoulder the needed repairs and training of personnel who will use the ship.

“I cannot tell the exact figure. It depends on the components to be placed in the ship. That would determine the pricing,” he said.

When asked if the cutter would be designated as the Navy’s flagship, Bacordo said: “It depends on the Navy leadership.”

Navy records showed that out of the 53 patrol ships in the inventory, only 25 are operational.

These patrol ships are of the average age of 36.4 years old. The biggest of these vessels like the Mine Sweeper Frigates and patrol craft escorts are 66 and 67 years old, respectively.

Only two of the seven Navy transport vessels are operational and are already 15 years old.

The non-operational vessels are 64 years old. On the other hand, only four of the 10 Navy auxiliary ships are operational. From among the 32 small crafts, 23 are operational with an average age of 21.3 years old.

The Navy is searching for ways to upgrade its capabilities without using the yearly budget, which is usually allotted for salaries and operational expenses. It has bared plans to set up a foundation that will gather assistance from private firms and individuals who want to help in improving its capabilities.

“We are planning to have this navy foundation where well-meaning individuals, groups, or firms can donate property, educational grant or anything that can be of help to us,” Bacordo said in an earlier interview.

The foundation may be formed within the first half of the year.

The Navy has also formed a new office that will look into proposals designed to tap public-private partnerships (PPP) to fund its modernization program.

The Capacity Resource Development and Special Projects Branch, which is under the Navy’s Resource Management Office, was tasked to find possible sources of income and to study proposals related to PPP.

Navy officials have cited the need to modernize the military’s rescue teams since the country is vulnerable to typhoons and other disasters.

Philstar.com

Deaths from rains hit 59; landslide sensors stolen

By: Victor Reyes
Malaya, Thursday 20 January 2011

THE death toll from weeks of continuous heavy rains in 11 regions yesterday rose to 59 from 54, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.

Also yesterday, the Navy rescued 34 passengers and crewmen of a boat that capsized in Palawan on January 16.

Three crewmen remain missing. This brings to 35 the total number of missing persons.

The NDRRMC reported that a landslide sensor installed by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau in landslide-prone St. Bernard town in Leyte was stolen two days ago.

A week ago, two river sensors of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration in Pangasinan and Tarlac were also stolen, compromising the government’s monitoring of flooding.

"We may not be able to issue warning on landslides," said Benito Ramos, NDRRMC executive director and head of the Office of Civil Defense, when asked on the effect of the theft of the landslide sensor.

The NDRRMC said the number affected people also increased to 323,149 families or 1,650,754 individuals, with 12,523 families staying in evacuation centers.

There was also a slight rise in damage to infrastructure, agriculture and private property, now at P1.78 billion.

The five new fatalities recorded by the NDRRMC were victims of drowning.

The vessel F/B Jonathan capsized off Paly island in Taytay town because of strong winds and turbulent water.

Navy spokesman Capt. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo said the Navy’s BRP Rizal reached the area yesterday and found the 34 rescued "clinging to the debris of the boat."

The three missing were identified as Bong Escondo, Bito Roldan and Limuel Tirincio.

The Philippine Red Cross appealed for donations amid the continuous heavy rains and flooding and for the effects of the La Niña phenomenon, which means more rains than normal.

PRC secretary general Gwendolyn Pang said needed are mats, blankets, mosquito nets, jerry cans, tents, rice, sardines, noodles, toothbrush and toothpaste, bath soap, sanitary napkins, shampoo, towels, and medicinal alcohol. – With Gerard Naval

Navy explosives expert honored

By: Alexis Romero
The Philippine Star, Sunday, 16 January 2011

The US Navy recently feted a Filipino Navy officer and explosives disposal expert for his efforts to ensure the safety of civilians against explosive devices.

Lt. Leo Dimoc was given the Explosive Ordnance Device (EOD) Officer Master Technician and Warfare badge, the first Filipino to receive such recognition. The badge signifies that the recipient is capable of handling explosive devices based on the qualifications set by the US Navy.

Navy spokesman Capt. Giovanni Bacordo said Dimoc is only the fourth Asian to receive such a badge.

“The award is based upon Lt. Dimoc’s sustained superior performance over the last two years, having flawlessly executed his chain of command’s EOD vision by tactically leading his team during the disposal of more than 100,000 rounds of retrograde ordnance, with a perfect safety record,” Bacordo said.

Dimoc was honored in a ceremony attended by Navy and police officials and representatives from the Joint United States Military Advisory Group in Camp Aguinaldo. Dimoc has been handling explosive devices since he joined the Naval Special Operations Group in 1997. He had shipping experience on board the BRP Quezon and BRP Pangasinan.

“As a demolitionist, we destroy the enemy and their implements. As an EOD technician, we render safe disposal of unexploded ordnance and improvised explosive devices,” Dimoc said.

Dimoc underwent training for seven months at the Basic Naval EOD Course at the Naval School EOD in Florida. He led the unit which disposed of around 40,000 lbs of explosive war remnants at the Naval Ordnance Depot Detachment in Caballo Island in 2009 and 2010. He also led a group that disposed a submarine-launched mobile mine at the east coast of Luzon and recovered a hand grenade at the Cavite City Hall.

Dimoc was also involved in the disposal of a fragmentation grenade thrown by a suspected Abu Sayyaf member at a village in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi. In addition, he helped organize the Counter IED conference in Fort Bonifacio in 2009.

Navy planning to acquire seven vessels next year

By Alexis Romero

The Philippine Star, Wednesday, December 29, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - The Navy plans to acquire seven vessels next year to improve its operations and upgrade its capabilities.

Navy spokesman Capt. Giovanni Bacordo told The STAR that they want to buy three offshore patrol vessels, three multipurpose attack craft and a landing craft utility in 2011.

“We seek to upgrade the capabilities of the Navy. The acquisition will help us perform our duties,” Bacordo said.

He said the attack craft, which will be used to insert troops during combat operations, would cost P89 million each.

On the other hand, the P178-million landing craft utility would be used to transport troops and logistics.

Bacordo said the patrol vessels would be used to conduct patrols at the Malampaya natural gas offshore facility in Palawan.

Information about the cost of the patrol vessels is not yet available.

Bacordo said the Navy has three multipurpose attack vessels in its inventory.

Two are deployed in Western Mindanao while another is stationed in Palawan.

He said they also have three landing craft utility but no offshore patrol vessels.

Bacordo said the purchase of a multi-role vessel is still in the pipeline but this would depend on the availability of funds.

He said they could not rely solely on the Navy’s annual budget for funds to cover the purchases since 70 percent of it goes to salaries while the rest is used to fund maintenance and operating expenses.

The purchase of the multi-role vessel, which costs about P5 billion, has been planned since 2007. Its acquisition, however, was stalled due to lack of financial resources.

A multi-role vessel is capable of delivering basic services to far-flung areas and can be used for disaster and humanitarian missions.

Earlier, the military announced plans to lease its properties to private firms to generate funds for its modernization program.

Officials said such a scheme would allow the military to procure equipment without bloating the deficit, which is expected to hit P325 billion this year.

Authorities are still determining how much would be generated from the project.

Last November, acting Navy chief Rear Adm. Danilo Cortez told The STAR that at least six firms have expressed interest in the project.

One of the six firms – Malaysian Resources Corp. Berhad – has submitted a proposal that would involve the lease of a 33-hectare Navy property in Fort Bonifacio in Taguig.

The Armed Forces Modernization Act, which took effect on Feb. 23, 1995, has given the military the opportunity to modernize in 15 years with a total fund of P331 billion.

More than 15 years have passed since the law was enacted but there are views that the military is not even close to what may be called a modern battle force. The delay in the law’s implementation has been attributed to the lack of state resources.

Philstar.com

3 World War II barko ng Navy, pinagretiro na

By: Joy Cantos

Pilipino Star Ngayon, Friday, December 10, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - Sa kabila ng kakulangan sa multi-bilyong pondo para sa Mo­dernization Program ng Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), tatlong lumang mga barko na panahon pa ng World War II ang pinagretiro na ang ope­rasyon ng Philippine Navy kahapon.

Ayon kay Philippine Navy Spokesman Capt. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo ang PS-23 at P 29; pawang mga patrol ship ay gamit sa Internal Security Operations habang ang Patrol gunboat PG -844 ay pawang sobrang luma na at may 67 taon ng ginagamit ng hukbong dagat.

Ang naturang mga barko ay nakadaong sa Naval Shipyard sa Navy Station Pascual Ledesma sa Cavite City.

Ipinaliwanag naman ng opisyal na ang pagpapatigil sa paggamit ng naturang mga barko ay dahilan sa masyadong magastos ang magmintina ng mga lumang barko na panahon pa ng World War II bukod sa masyado na itong mabagal at maraming depekto.

“They are impossible to maintain due to old age,” ani Bacordo kung saan sa kabuuang 53 patrol ships ay 25 lamang ang ma­aring magamit sa patrol ope­ration­.

Samantalang nabatid naman kay Captain Noel de Vera, Commander ng Naval Shipyard na aabot lamang sa P35- M ang pondo­ para sa pagmamantine ng may 102 barko ng Philippine Navy kaya’t importanteng maisulong ang mo­dernisasyon ng naturang hukbo.

Vintage Navy ships taken off the shelf

By: Victor Reyes

Malaya, Friday, December 10, 2010

THE Navy yesterday decommissioned three vintage ships.

It is coordinating with the donors of the two patrol ships and a patrol gunboat prior to selling these as scrap metal.

Parts of these vessels have already been removed and used for other Navy ships.

"If we needed spares, we just goet them from these (now decommissioned ships)," said Capt. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo, Navy spokesman.

"They are beyond economic repair. It will entail a lot of cost if they are going to be revived so we preferred to remove them from the inventory of the Philippine Navy," said Bacordo.

Bacordo also said the decommissioning of the ships would not have effect on the Navy’s operational capability because these have not been used for a long while, remaining idle at Sangley Point in Cavite City, home of the Philippine Fleet.

He said the two patrol ships, PS 29 or BRP Negros Occidental and PS 23 or BRP Datu Marikudo, were donated by the US after the World War II and are 67 years old.

The gunboat (PG 844 or BRP Jose Artiaga) saw action with the Philippine Navy in 1993 after their donation by South Korea. It is about 30 years old.

With the decommissioning of the three ships, the Navy is left with 99 patrol, transport, and auxiliary ships and small craft, many of them also ageing. Of the number, 54 are operational, the Navy said.

Navy decommissions 3 WW II patrol boats

By: Alexis Romero

Philippine Star, Friday, December 10, 2010

SANGLEY POINT– Three World War II-era Navy patrol boats given by the United States were decommissioned yesterday.

Navy spokesman Capt. Giovanni Bacordo said the 67-year-old patrol boats, which saw action in World War II, will be sold as scrap metal.

“We have a Navy disposal committee,” he said.

Capt. Noel de Vera, Navy shipyard commander, said they have to get approval from the Armed Forces chief and the Joint United States Military Advisory Committee (JUSMAG) before they can proceed with the bidding.

The Navy disposal committee is still assessing the value of the decommissioned vessels, he added, Bacordo said only four of the 10 Navy auxiliary ships are operational.

Among the 32 small craft, 23 are operational, with an average age of 21 years old, he added.

Bacordo said the Navy budget cannot bankroll the purchase of new assets because 70 percent of the outlay goes to the salary of personnel.

The rest is for maintenance and operational expenses, he added.

Navy data showed that out of the 53 ships in the inventory, only 25 are operational.

These patrol boats are, on average, 36 years old.

The bigger ships like mine sweeper frigates and patrol craft escorts are 66 and 67 years old.