New Phl warship makes history after crossing waterway linking 2 oceans

MANILA, Philippines - The BRP Ramon Alcaraz, the second warship acquired by the Philippines from the United States, successfully crossed the Panama Canal, becoming the first Filipino warship to voyage the historic waterway under her own power.

 

The Philippine Navy said the warship successfully concluded last June 18 (US time) her crossing of the 82-kilometer Panama Canal, which connects the Atlantic Ocean (via the Caribbean Sea) to the Pacific Ocean.

 

"She passed by Panama Canal Tuesday evening," said Philippine Navy spokesperson Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic.

 

The BRP Ramon Alcaraz entered the Panama Canal Zone almost five days after her departure in Charleston, South Carolina last June 10.

 

Before her arrival at the Panama Canal Zone, the warship stopped at Mayport, Florida to test fire her 76mm automatic cannon and for speed trials.

 

The warship reportedly attained the speed of 25 knots without any difficulty. Its top speed is placed between 29 to 31 knots.

 

BRP Ramon Alcaraz is "sailing smoothly" and expected to meet its target date of arrival in the country.

 

"Everything is on schedule as per voyage plan. Target dates can be meet," Fabic said.

 

The new warship is set to make its first port call in San Diego, California on June 30 and will sail to Hawaii and Guam before heading home.

 

It is expected to arrive in the Philippines in the first week of August.