The Philippines is now in the process of redesigning its reserve force to make it more attuned to the changing security environment, Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. said over the weekend.
He made this comment during the closing ceremonies of the 44th National Reservist Week that was held in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City last Saturday, September 30.
“We are in the process of redesigning our reserve force based on the needs of the times. Hopefully, we can come up with a synergistic, ready, and relevant Reserve Force not only now but lay the foundations for building it and changing the shape as needed in the future,” he added.
Teodoro also highlighted the need to build up the country’s non-military civil defense units to further secure Philippine communities as he witnessed a capability demonstration of 27th Naval Affiliated Reserve Group.
“What we witnessed today was something that I wanted to underscore on a strategic basis. We have to build up our reserve force hand-in-hand with building up non-military civil defense units in order to secure our communities,” he added.
In line with this, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. hailed reservists and reserve units for their significant contributions to the country.
“You have been instrumental in responding to natural disasters, providing humanitarian assistance, and supporting internal security operations and territorial defense operations. Your sterling performance stands as a testament to your dedication and resolve in the name of duty as we forge ahead in our mission to safeguard our nation and our people,” Brawner said.
He added that the AFP aims to continue expediting Reserve Force Development program with a focus on territorial defense operations, which will give a bigger role for reservists in attaining the AFP’s overall mission.
“I thank you for living to our virtues of volunteerism, patriotism, and nationalism. I urge you, therefore, to continue enhancing your skills and capabilities to ensure unit and individual readiness in times of crisis and national emergencies. Under the leadership of our Chief of Staff, General Brawner, and through the supervision of the J-9, [AFP deputy chief of staff for reservists and retirees affairs] the state of affairs of our Armed Forces will be on an upward trajectory,” President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said in a message.
