President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., on the sidelines of the 2025 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit, held a strategic meeting with South Korean shipbuilding giant Hanwha Ocean Co. to explore a landmark defense collaboration aimed at modernizing the Philippine Navy.
The proposed partnership includes the construction of a state-of-the-art submarine base, the establishment of a local maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) center, and the deployment of advanced training systems for Filipino naval personnel. These initiatives are expected to significantly enhance the country’s maritime defense capabilities amid growing regional security challenges.
Hanwha Ocean executives also showcased their cutting-edge KSS-III PN submarines, equipped with modern sonar and combat systems, as well as lithium-ion battery technology that enables extended underwater endurance. The vessels are being considered as part of the Philippines’ long-term naval modernization program.
President Marcos emphasized the importance of regional cooperation and technological advancement in securing the nation’s maritime interests, noting that the partnership with Hanwha could mark a new era in Philippine naval defense.
The Bench Files 
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