Alcaraz to get new weapons; another warship from US soon?

MANILA, Philippines - Additional weapons will be equipped to the BRP Ramon Alcaraz while talks are underway for another warship acquisition from the United States, the Philippine Navy said.

The Navy said additional weapons will be fitted to the ship during her dry-docking period to enhance the combat efficiency of the new warship.

The dry-docking period of the Alcaraz which is now at the Alave Pier, Subic Bay, is expected to start this August up to October.

"The additional armaments which will be fitted to the BRP Ramon Alcaraz is part of our enhancement program," Navy flag-officer-in-charge Vice Admiral Jose Luis Alano said in a state news agency report.

However, Alano declined to specify what weapons would be fitted to the Alcaraz.

Alano also confirmed in a separate report that talks are now underway between the U.S. and the Philippines regarding the possible acquisition of another Hamilton-class cutter like the Alcaraz which will be used to beef up the country's fleet.

On Tuesday, President Benigno Aquino III led the official welcoming of the Alacaraz, which is seen a boost to the country's maritime defense.

Related story: PNoy says new warship will defend Phl territory