The Philippine Navy (PN) formally welcomed yesterday  the country’s first dedicated marine research vessel – BRP Gregorio Velasquez (AGR 702).

BRP Velasquez arrived in the country Wednesday after almost a month and a half voyage from San Diego, California where it was formally turned over, christened and commissioned to the Philippine Navy service last April 27.

A welcome ceremony attended by top defense and military officials was held at Pier 13 South Harbor, Manila where the Navy gave tribute and recognition to the sailors who brought the ship safely to the Philippines.

BRP Velasquez which  is commanded by Navy Cmdr. Edwin Nera and manned by 30 officers and enlisted personnel will be used to map the country’s vast maritime domains.

“The research vessel will not only provide us capability for hydrographic survey. It will also become a platform for inter-agency collaboration for partners in academe and thus, improve our sub-surface environment,” said Capt. Lued Lincuna, PN Public Affairs officer.

Aside from this, the ship will also serve as “a valuable platform in reviewing our anti-submarine warfare capability,” Lincuna added.

Before its turnover to the Philippine navy, BRP Velasquez was Research Vessel (RV) Melville of the United States Office of Naval Research – one of  two ships pledged by US President Barrack Obama during a visit to the Philippines in November last year.

Launched in 1968, the ship was placed on the US Defense Department’s list of excess equipment slated for transfer to the Philippines to help the latter conduct oceanographic research.

Source:
courtesy of MANILA BULLETIN

by Elena L. Aben

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