MILITARY officials in Davao Region underscored the critical role of the Reserve Force and the Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) in strengthening community defense, disaster response, and national resilience across the region.
During a press briefing organized by the Peace and Security Press Corps at the Royal Mandaya Hotel earlier this week, the speakers emphasized the importance of building a robust Reserve Command (Rescom) alongside the active service units of the Philippine Army.
Colonel Calixto D. Cadano Jr., group commander of the 11th Regional Community Defense Group (11RCDG), Rescom, Philippine Army, said the Reserve Force remains a vital, though often overlooked, component of the country's defense structure.
“If you love your family and community, join our Reserve Force. We are the backbone of community defense,” Cadano urged, stressing that reservists serve without direct compensation, driven instead by patriotism and a shared responsibility to protect their communities.
Lt. Col. Salvacion Evangelista, spokesperson of the Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom), also emphasized the Reserve Force’s role in augmenting government response during natural disasters and other crises.
Cadano highlighted the role of ROTC, citing Republic Act 9163 or the National Service Training Program (NSTP) Act of 2001. The law mandates higher education institutions to offer ROTC, instilling leadership, resilience, and civic responsibility among Filipino youth.
In Davao, ROTC cadets undergo specialized training in disaster preparedness and emergency response, making them frontliners in community aid during calamities.
Addressing long-standing concerns surrounding hazing and corruption, Cadano assured that ROTC units in the region strictly comply with the Anti-Hazing Law. He stressed that disciplinary measures are carefully implemented within legal bounds to protect cadets.
“We have clear guidelines to ensure that no form of hazing happens under our watch,” he said.
On corruption issues, he added that any officer found guilty of misconduct faces immediate administrative action, including removal from office.
Cadano reiterated that ROTC graduates, like other reservists, are expected to respond to national defense calls when necessary. Citing the National Defense Act, he noted that even civilians, including ROTC alumni, play a mandated role in the country's overall defense strategy.
Military officials encouraged more youth and professionals to consider joining the Reserve Force or enrolling in ROTC, stressing that national defense is a shared commitment among all Filipinos.