MANILA, Philippines — The Navy’s newest ship BRP Davao del Sur, which is set to be deployed near strife-torn Marawi, will help in the rebuilding and rehabilitation efforts in the city, Malacañang said Sunday.
BRP Davao del Sur, the Navy’s newest landing platform dock, will be sent to Cotabato City to strengthen the government forces’ campaign against Maute terrorists.
The ship will also deliver military logistics and supplies for ground forces and relief goods for displaced residents.
But the role of the 404-footer ship may go beyond security and relief efforts.
“BRP Davao del Sur is also ready to provide the support required once the reconstruction, rehabilitation, and rebuilding of Marawi begins,” Presidential Spokesman Ernesto Abella said in a statement.
“BRP Davao del Sur will greatly assist in our military operations in quelling the rebellion in Marawi. Apart from delivering military supplies and relief goods, the vessel will be utilized as a back-up floating medical facility to treat the wounded,” he added.
Officials have said the rehabilitation of Marawi can only begin after the city is cleared of Maute militants. The military no longer sets timelines for the operations after repeatedly missing its self-imposed deadlines.
The Duterte administration is planning to allot P20 billion for the reconstruction, rebuilding and rehabilitation of the battle-ravaged city. An executive order outlining the rehabilitation plan is awaiting the president’s signature.
More than 320,000 people or about 69,000 families have been displaced since the Islamic State-aligned Maute group laid siege in Marawi last May 23.
BRP Davao del Sur was launched in 2016 and was commissioned on May 31, 2017. The vessel is named after the province that President Rodrigo Duterte's hometown of Davao City is geographically located.
Built by Indonesian firm PT PAL, the ship has a maximum carrying capacity of 11,583 tons and can last at sea for 30 days.