CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City—The Armed Forces of the Philippines, through the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Reservist and Retiree Affairs, J9, officially marked the end of the month-long celebration of the 44th National Reservist Week in a culmination program on September 30.
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. served as the Guest of Honor and Speaker during the culmination ceremony. “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,” Sec. Teodoro Jr. said.
Promoting awareness and showcasing an AFP Reserve Force “moving towards a resilient posture,” a capability demonstration was performed by the 27th Naval Affiliated Reserve Group at the Lapu-Lapu Grandstand.
“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,” Sec. Teodoro Jr. added.
Reservists and reserve units were also recognized for their significant contributions to the country. The Chief of Staff, AFP, General Romeo S Brawner Jr., expressed his appreciation of the AFP Reserve Force. “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,” Gen. Brawner said.
The AFP aims to continue expediting Reserve Force development, especially with a focus on territorial defense operations, which will give a bigger role for reservists in attaining the Armed Forces’ 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 J9, the state of affairs of our Armed Forces will be on an upward trajectory,” said President Ferdinand R Marcos Jr. in a message.///
