THE military envisioned activating at least one platoon of reservists in each municipality in Zamboanga del Sur to strengthen community defense capabilities and enhance local support for national security efforts.
On Tuesday, July 29, the 53rd Infantry Battalion (IB) and local government officials of Kumalarang, Zamboanga del Sur, discussed plans for recruiting reservists in a meeting on Tuesday, July 29.
The meeting included key leaders such as Colonel Lino Araya, Jr. of the Army’s 901st Community Defense Center, Lieutenant Colonel Rolando Vargas Jr., 53IB commander, Kumalarang Mayor Ruel Molina, and members of the Sangguniang Bayan.
“This initiative aims to strengthen community defense capabilities and enhance local support for national security efforts through organized reserve units,” the 53IB said in a statement.
During the discussion, both military and local officials emphasized the importance of proactive community involvement in defense and security.
The 53IB said they explored collaborative strategies to promote awareness and participation in the reservist program, ensuring that each municipality can contribute trained individuals who are ready to assist during emergencies, disasters, and national contingencies.
Once the plan pushes through, Zamboanga del Sur will have a total of 27 platoons of reservists since the province has one city and 26 municipalities.
The initiative demonstrates the 53IB's ongoing commitment to empowering local communities, enhancing external defense operations, and fostering strong partnerships between the Philippine Army and local government units. (SunStar Zamboanga)