We first met Domingo in May at the International Maritime Defense Exhibition and Conference (IMDEX) 2023 in Singapore, where he gave Naval News a tour of the Philippine Navy’s newest frigate. That tour and interview can be watched here:
At the time, Domingo was the frigate’s Duty Officer. Since then, he has been promoted to Commanding Officer of BRP Antonio Luna and has overseen much of the warship’s exercises, interactions with foreign navies, and patrols in the West Philippine Sea. Following BRP Antonio Luna’s participation at Exercise Sama Sama 2023, a multinational exercise that focused on improving the Philippine Navy’s warfighting skills, Domingo went into his time in the service, highlights from commanding BRP Antonio Luna, and issues in the South China Sea with Naval News.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
How did you start your career in the Philippine Navy?
I started my career in the Navy way back in 2000 after I graduated from the Philippine Military Academy the same year. I chose the Navy as my branch of service because I thought commanding a warship was cool… which is the closest thing to commanding a spaceship having watched all those Star Trek series as a teenager and “to boldly go where no man has gone before.” My first ship was the WW2 vintage BRP Rajah Humabon (PF-11), then the flagship of the Philippine Navy. I spent around 3 years on that ship going through the usual junior officer billets and afterward through the usual shore billets. From then on, I just “followed the course of my dream,” with some occasional setbacks and difficulties, leading humbly to where I am now which is commanding BRP Antonio Luna.
With the delivery of warships like the Jose Rizal-class frigates, what is your outlook on the Philippine Navy going forward?
The delivery of the Jose Rizal-class frigates under the AFP Modernization Program was a leap for us especially for me and those in my generation whose previous assignments were mostly WW2-era vintage ships. We thank the national government for supporting the Navy’s modernization program. These modern and advanced warships will greatly enhance the capabilities and operational reach of the Navy. With the upcoming delivery of more platforms such as the Corvettes and OPVs, it demonstrates the commitment of the Philippine Navy to strengthening its maritime defense and security capabilities. This will not only bolster the Navy’s ability to protect and safeguard Philippine waters but also contribute to maritime peace and security in the Asia-Pacific region.
BRP Antonio Luna frequently participates in exercises, as seen with last year’s RIMPAC and Exercise Sama Sama. What benefits do exercises with international partners bring to you, your crew, and the Philippine Navy as a whole?
Bilateral or multilateral exercises such as the RIMPAC, AIMEX, AMNEX, Balikatan, Sama Sama, etc. bring numerous benefits to me, my crew, and the Philippine Navy as a whole.
Firstly, these exercises provide valuable opportunities for us to enhance our interoperability and collaboration with partner navies. By training alongside international counterparts, we can learn from their expertise, exchange best practices, and improve our collective ability to work together effectively on a bilateral or multilateral level.
Secondly, participation in exercises allows us to broaden our perspective and gain exposure to different tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs). We can observe and learn from the diverse 2 TTPs of other navies, which can contribute to our own professional development and operational proficiency.
Additionally, these exercises and engagements foster valuable personal and professional relationships. We have the chance to build friendships and establish professional networks with sailors from other countries, which can strengthen cooperation and communication in the future.
On a broader scale, exercises with international partners contribute to strengthening regional security and stability. By engaging in these exercises, we demonstrate our commitment to maintaining maritime order and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.
Overall, these exercises provide invaluable training opportunities, foster cooperation and relationships, and contribute to the overall readiness and capabilities of the Philippine Navy.
The recently concluded Exercise Sama Sama 2023 was a great learning opportunity for us to develop and improve our warfighting skills since the activities focused on the four domains of warfare (AAW, ASW, ASuW, and EW) aside from the common mainstays during naval exercises such as the DivTacs, PHOTOEX, PUBEX, MIO, VBSS, SAREX and the like.
As for the replenishment at sea, this is an underway evolution for the ship to receive fuel or supply without the need to dock in port. This allows the naval ships to extend their operational reach and remain at sea for longer periods without returning to port to resupply. It was a great learning opportunity for us to perform it during Exercise Sama Sama and we sincerely thank the Afloat Training Group, WESPAC of the US Navy, and the Sea Training Group of the Royal Australian Navy who trained us for the in-port training. They were very much impressed after learning of the news that we were able to conduct it successfully at sea with USNS Wally Schirra.
With some spaces of BRP Antonio Luna are designated fitted for but not with (FFBNW). When can we expect the VLS, CIWS, and VDS installed on the frigate?
The installation of the FFBNWs such as the CIWS and VLS, though I’m not privy to it, is in the pipeline. Our TWGs have to carefully recommend the best or the most appropriate among those proponents based on their established parameters.
The VLS would greatly enhance the frigate’s offensive capabilities by allowing it to launch a variety of missiles such as surface-to-air and surface-to-surface missiles.
In terms of defensive capabilities, the installation of CIWS would provide the frigate with enhanced protection against close-range threats, such as anti-ship missiles, aircraft, and small surface threats.
The ship also has the provision for the Towed Array Sonar System (TASS) and this would enhance our subsurface detection capability. It would greatly complement our existing Hull-Mounted Sonar.
The Philippine Navy deployed its newly procured AW159 Wildcat Helicopter from BRP Antonio Luna this summer for the first time. What capabilities does this asset bring to your command, and what experiences were taken away during its deployment?
The AW159 is a versatile maritime helicopter known for its advanced capabilities. It offers a range of mission-specific systems and equipment that can greatly enhance the capabilities of the naval command. Some potential capabilities and benefits of the AW159 include:
1. Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW). The AW 159 Wildcat is equipped with advanced sensors and sonar systems, enabling it to detect and track submarines effectively. It can deploy sonobuoys and torpedoes to detect and engage sub-surface threats.
2. Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW). The helicopter can be armed with anti-ship missiles allowing it to engage surface targets with precision and accuracy. This provides an additional layer of offensive capability to the command.
3. Search and Rescue (SAR). The Wildcat’s advanced sensors, navigation systems, and hoist capabilities make it well-suited for search and rescue operations. It can operate in various weather conditions and quickly locate and extract personnel in distress at sea.
4. Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR). The helicopter’s sensors, electro-optical infrared systems, and radar provide a comprehensive situational awareness picture, enabling effective surveillance and reconnaissance missions.
During the Shipboard Helicopter Operation Limits (SHOL) training with the AW159 Wildcat last July, the crew and the command of BRP Antonio Luna gained valuable insights and experiences regarding the helicopter’s performance, operational effectiveness, and maintenance requirements. These experiences will contribute to optimizing the integration and utilization of the helicopter within the overall capabilities of the force. There are also upcoming training and exercises that the Navy has scheduled to further capacitate our personnel as well as fine-tune existing TTPs with regard to their employment in tandem with the Jose Rizal-class frigates.
The WPS has received much attention over the years, and recently Western Command’s commander joined the BRP Antonio Luna on one of its patrols in the area. What is your command doing to uphold Philippine sovereignty in the area?
BRP Antonio Luna was honored to accommodate the Commander, Western Command onboard and join us for a maritime patrol in the West Philippine Sea. During that patrol, he also visited our detachments there, showcasing his strong commitment to the troops assigned there. He also closely interacted with our officers and crew and engaged in open discussions about the challenges faced in the AOR.
From a broad standpoint, is my duty, as captain of the ship, to execute my tasks with the end goal of ensuring maritime security in that area through the guidance and directives given to me by my operational commander. These include conducting maritime and sovereignty patrols, and surveillance, as well as establishing a naval presence to assert our maritime rights and to perform other duties as directed by higher authorities.
How does your command cooperate with the Philippine Coast Guard in protecting WPS?
The Philippine Coast Guard performs a distinct yet complementary role with the Philippine Navy in protecting the WPS. The frequency of cooperation between my command and other Philippine Coast Guard vessels can vary depending on various factors such as operational requirements, type of missions, and the need for coordinated efforts in maritime security and law enforcement.
Both the Philippine Navy and the Philippine Coast Guard play a crucial role in safeguarding the maritime domain and ensuring the safety and security of our Philippine waters. As such it is not uncommon for two entities to collaborate and cooperate on a regular basis in the WPS. It also helps that I personally know some Philippine Coast Guard Skippers and Officers, therefore, collaboration is not that difficult on the tactical level.
Cooperation between my command and the Philippine Coast Guard is essential for effective maritime surveillance, patrol missions, search and rescue operations, and the enforcement of maritime laws and operations. Together, we work towards common objectives to protect our waters and the safety of maritime activities in the region.
From the perspective of a Philippine Navy Captain, how do you view the recent Rotation and Resupply missions to BRP Sierra Madre at Ayungin Shoal?
Our Sailors and Marines play a crucial role in safeguarding our sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdictions. I would like also to point out that aside from the BRP Sierra Madre, there are also other 8 outposts that our sailors and marines are guarding in the WPS … including all other outposts from the four corners of our vast archipelago our sailors and marines are deployed. All of them are sacrificing and facing the dangers not only with the harassment and bullying from the CCGs (China Coast Guard) and CMMs (Chinese Maritime Milita) in the case of WPS but also the hazards from the elements and even occasional loneliness from being assigned to these distant outposts. But our sailors and marines are professionals and patriotic enough, to know the importance of their tasks in those areas.
In the case of these resupply missions, I have high regard for the Sailors manning our resupply ships who are the main efforts, and the Coastguardsmen from the Philippine Coast Guard
vessels who are providing the supporting efforts. It is inspiring as well and it makes me proud of their courage, grit, and seamanship skills so that they may be able to bring in the necessary fresh supplies and provisions to our fellow sailors and marines stationed at BRP Sierra Madre. As a mission-oriented ship, BRP Antonio Luna will always be there to provide security in these missions for as long as we are deployed at Western Command AOR.
While I understand that your command is relatively new, what is the moment that you are proudest of so far as the Captain of BRP Antonio Luna?
There is not a day that I am not proud of my men for what they are doing, whether we are at sea or in port. I am proud we successfully hurdle each mission with no untoward incidences especially if there are challenging situations along the way.
Lately, we just participated in Exercise Sama Sama 2023, wherein BRP Antonio Luna led the other four Navies in the exercise and I’m proud of how my officers displayed great skill and diplomacy in coordinating all the efforts that led to the desired result of the exercise. I’m also impressed and amazed by the level of knowledge and skills of my officers and crew in the warfare domains, which is a manifestation of the investments in foreign training that the Philippine Navy, particularly the Offshore Combat Force, had embarked on which started even before the JRCFs had arrived, and is continuing until now.
Most importantly, I was also deeply proud of the successful conduct of Replenishment-at-Sea with USNS Wally Schirra: that was definitely “one for the books” for Antonio Luna. It was a great learning experience considering the dangers and risks in this type of evolution such as collision, fire-at-sea, or personal injuries to the crew.
BRP Antonio Luna’ Public Affairs Officer has posted several pieces of media that break with traditional Navy press releases. Why have these lighthearted graphics been released?
The late Steve Jobs, a person I personally admire advised us to “Think Different” and so my guidance to my Public Affairs Officer is to think differently in her approach to our public affairs products… and she somehow got the assignment right.
These lighthearted social media posts that we publish from time to time, instead of the solely serious ones, serve several purposes such as:
1. Building rapport and connection: Lighthearted posts can help humanize the military and create a sense of relatability. By showcasing a more personable and approachable side, it becomes easier to engage with the wider audience and build positive relationships. We shared these posts to at least break the trend of monotonous posts.
2. Promoting morale and camaraderie: The military environment can be intense and demanding. Lighthearted social media posts can provide moments of levity and boost the morale of service members. By sharing humorous or light-hearted content, it can foster a sense of togetherness and camaraderie among military personnel.
3. Community engagement: Social media platforms offer an opportunity to connect with a broader audience, including civilians. By sharing lighthearted posts, the military can reach out to the general public in a more accessible and enjoyable manner. It helps create an image that is not solely focused on serious matters but rather shows the diverse nature of military life.
4. Balancing the narrative: While serious and important topics are integral to military operations, it is not the sole aspect of military life. Lighthearted posts can provide a more holistic view, showcasing the lighter moments and activities within the military. This helps create a balanced narrative and takes into account that military personnel are multifaceted individuals with varying interests and experiences.
It is important to note that the content shared on social media platforms by military entities should still align with their mission, values, and policies.
As of late, we also have created our new Twitter (X) account to reach out to a wider and more diverse audience.
The idea of Joint Patrols in the South China and West Philippine Seas between the Philippines and partner navies is gaining traction, especially after all the incidents we’ve seen this year. With many nations showing interest in conducting them. How do you view Joint Patrols?
We in the tactical level especially us operators will always comply with the directives given to us by higher authorities such as in the conduct of bilateral or multilateral exercises, coordinated patrols, bilateral sails, and the like.
If you remember, about a month ago BRP Antonio Luna had a bilateral sail with HMCS Ottawa, and a few weeks before that our sister ship BRP Jose Rizal also had a bilateral sail with USS Ralph Johnson within our maritime zones. These activities are part of our regular engagements and are a great learning experience for our sailors. It also enhances collaboration, promotes interoperability with our friends and partners, and signifies our shared commitment to rules-based international order and a Free and Open Indo-Pacific region.
Take note that the term used in the two events was “Bilateral Sail.” I can’t comment on the conduct of “Joint Patrols” because that is beyond my level.”
