In a bid to strengthen its response capabilities during national emergencies and security threats, the Philippine Army is urging more residents of Negros Oriental to join its Ready Reserve Battalion (RRB). The call to action comes from Col. William Pesase, the head of the 703rd Community Defense Center, who emphasized the critical role reservists play in disaster management, socio-economic development, and national defense, particularly in light of tensions in the West Philippine Sea and the active Mt. Kanlaon.
The Army’s efforts to expand its reserve force were highlighted by the recent completion of a 10-day Company Integration Training by 105 members of the RRB’s Alpha Company at the 11th Infantry Battalion headquarters in Siaton, Negros Oriental. This training, aimed at enhancing the operational skills of reservists, is part of a broader program to prepare them for potential integration with regular forces during times of need.
Col. Pesase stressed that reservists, who are not full-time soldiers but return to their civilian jobs when not on active duty, are essential for the Army’s readiness. The training they receive, which includes marksmanship and other military skills, is designed to be on par with that of regular troops.
The 703rd Community Defense Center and the RRB are stationed at Camp Leon Kilat in Tanjay City, and the Army hopes that more volunteers from Negros Oriental will step up to contribute to the nation’s security and disaster response efforts.