21 January 2016 – The Philippine Navy’s first Strategic Sealift Vessel was christened and launched on January 18 in Surabaya, Indonesia. The vessel was christened “BRP Tarlac LD601.”

The Launching Ceremony was attended by Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Philippine Ambassador to Indonesia Maria Lumen Isleta, the Philippine Navy’s Flag Officer-in-Command VADM Caesar Taccad and other officials from DND and AFP. For the Indonesian side, attendees included Indonesian Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Resources Rizal Ramli, Indonesian Minister for Defense Ryamizard Ryacudu, and Chief of the Indonesian Navy Vice Admiral Ade Supandi.

During the Launching Ceremony, Secretary Gazmin said that aside from the ability to respond to traditional and non-traditional threats, the vessel will enhance the country’s capability in delivering humanitarian assistance and disaster response. Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs Ramli expressed appreciation for the trust given by the Philippines to Indonesia in strengthening its naval fleet.

BRP Tarlac LD601 is expected to arrive in the Philippines this May. END