The Admiral's Yacht
A Voyage Through the BRP Ang Pangulo's Service.
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Overview
Presidential Vessel
The BRP Ang Pangulo (AT-25) is a distinguished presidential yacht acquired by the Philippine government in 1959. It has served as a symbol of state, a venue for official functions, and a platform for presidential duties across multiple administrations.
National Service
Commissioned into the Philippine Navy, the yacht has undertaken various roles beyond ceremonial duties, including humanitarian missions, disaster relief operations, and serving as a mobile command center, demonstrating its versatility and enduring significance to the Republic.
Enduring Legacy
With a history spanning over six decades, the BRP Ang Pangulo has witnessed pivotal moments in Philippine history, reflecting the nation's journey and the evolving needs of its leadership.
Specifications
Class & Type
Class: Ang Pangulo class
Type: Presidential Yacht
Cost & Builder
Cost: US$ 3,000,000
Builder: Ishikawajima-Harima Heavy Industries
Dimensions & Power
Length: 254 ft (77 m)
Beam: 42.7 ft (13.0 m) (folded)
Draft: 19.5 ft (5.9 m)
Installed Power: 5,000 hp (3,700 kW)
Performance
Propulsion: 2 ร Mitsui-Burmeister & Wain DE642/VBF75
Speed: 18 knots (maximum), 15 knots (sustained)
Range: 6,900 nmi at 15 knots
Capacity
Guests: 44 yacht guests
Crew: 81 crew members
Facilities
Aviation: Helipad at aft deck
Historical Service
Garcia Administration (1957-1961)
Constructed in Japan as part of war reparations, the vessel was initially named RPS Lapu-Lapu (PY-77). At the behest of President Carlos P. Garcia, Filipino naval engineers designed it as a presidential yacht. It was commissioned into the Philippine Navy on March 7, 1959, serving as its flagship until December 1961.
Macapagal Administration (1961-1965)
President Diosdado Macapagal ordered the yacht's conversion into a naval troop transport, renaming it RPS Roxas in honor of the fifth Philippine President. During this period, Macapagal utilized another yacht, the RPS Santa Maria, which he renamed RPS Pag-Asa.
Marcos Administration (1965-1986)
Under President Ferdinand E. Marcos, the vessel was renamed RPS The President, and later BRP Ang Pangulo (TP-777), resuming its role as the presidential yacht. It became associated with lavish events, notably Irene Marcos' controversial September 1985 party, which drew criticism given the nation's economic state. Diplomats, including U.S. Ambassador Stephen W. Bosworth, were present, highlighting the administration's opulence.
Aquino Administration (1986-1992)
President Corazon Aquino aimed to curb extravagance. The ship's maintenance cost the government P400,000 monthly. In September 1986, an attempt was made to sell the yacht for $5.5 million, but it remained unsold.
Ramos Administration (1992-1998)
President Fidel V. Ramos utilized the yacht for diplomatic engagements, notably hosting Chinese President Jiang Zemin aboard the vessel.
Estrada Administration (1998-2001)
President Joseph Ejercito Estrada oversaw significant refurbishments. The yacht became a venue for presidential events and served as a mobile office, particularly during trips to Mindanao, functioning as a "mobile Malacaรฑang."
Arroyo Administration (2001-2010)
During President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo's term, the yacht was renamed BRP Pag-Asa (AT-25). It continued its service, conducting relief and medical missions across the archipelago, aiding in search and rescue, and supporting naval functions.
Aquino Administration (2010-2016)
President Benigno S. Aquino III restored the yacht's original name, BRP Ang Pangulo (AT-25). It rejoined the fleet on December 14, 2011, augmenting the Philippine Navy's capabilities. A new seal design was also presented.
Duterte Administration (2016-2022)
President Rodrigo Duterte initially planned to sell the yacht, with proceeds intended for war veterans and healthcare. However, plans shifted towards converting it into a hospital ship. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the BRP Ang Pangulo was repurposed as a 28-bed isolation facility for frontline military workers and later provided medical aid to patients in Siargao and the Dinagat Islands.
Previous Presidential Yachts
The Apo
Originally built in Scotland in 1898 as the Cem, later renamed The Amelia III and Yacona. Acquired by the U.S. Navy in 1917, it was transferred to the Philippine Insular Government in 1921 and renamed Apo. It was returned to the U.S. Federal Government in 1932.
The Cassiana/Banahaw
Built in 1908, acquired by the Commonwealth government in 1936 and renamed Banahaw. It served the President and his family but sank off Corregidor in 1941 due to Japanese bombing.
The Orchid
A Manzanita Class vessel built in 1908 for the U.S. Lighthouse Service. Transferred to the Philippines in 1945, it was used by President Manuel Roxas.
The Apo II
Originally the USS Quest (AM-281), an Admirable-class minesweeper. Transferred to the Philippines in 1948, it underwent several name changes (Dalisay, Pagasa, Santa Maria, Corregidor, Pagasa, Incorruptible, Mount Samat) and served as an alternate yacht before being decommissioned and sunk in 1993.
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Important Notice
This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.
This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional historical research, naval consultation, or government advisory services. Always refer to official government records and consult with qualified professionals for specific needs.
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