By Rodolfo Dacleson II
(September 15, 2024) – Sen. Francis Tolentino on Saturday asked nearly 110,000 reservists of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to help the country uphold its sovereignty in the disputed territories in the West Philippine Sea.
He stressed the need for their readiness while the country is taking a “strategic” role amid the political tensions in the Indo-Pacific region.
“The reserve force is a symbol, a testament to every Filipino, and serves and safeguards our sovereignty,” said Tolentino during the celebration of the 45th Reservist Week at Camp Aguinaldo, as quoted in a media release.
He furthered that the presence of reservists offers assurance to the public in times of crisis.
“As we face further uncertainties in the region, it becomes imperative that we continue to strengthen capabilities, training, and support for our reservists,” added Tolentino.
During their historic trilateral meeting last April, Pres. Bongbong Marcos reaffirmed to enhance military ties with United States Pres. Joe Biden and Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida for a “peaceful, secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific.”
China, however, deemed the move as a “stoking bloc confrontation” that undermines regional peace and security. It has excessive claims in the South China Sea, which overlaps the West Philippine Sea.
ALSO READ: SPECIAL REPORT | Maritime tension: Does invoking Mutual Defense Treaty trigger immediate war?
Earlier today, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported that BRP Teresa Magbanua left Escoda Shoal due to several factors, including the collision incident with the China Coast Guard last August 31.
Marcos vowed to abide by international law, citing the necessity of the landmark ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration in 2016 to enforce the country’s sovereignty.
ALSO READ: Philippines to abide by international law amid maritime row, stresses Marcos
He also reiterated that the country has no business “instigating war.”
Tolentino said the AFP could use reservists during an invasion threat.
“Our national defense is not only about weapons and strategy, but it is also about our nation’s collective consciousness to stand and defend our sovereignty and freedom,” said Tolentino.
(With reports from Meanne Los Baños-Oroceo, News5)
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