GUEST COLUMNIST

By Lt. Gen. Jaime S. de los Santos, AFP (Ret)

As nations worldwide grapple with the challenges posed by conflicts, the recent Israeli-Hamas war serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of having a robust reserve force. Initiated on Oct. 7, 2003, when Hamas attacked Israel, this conflict has morphed into a large-scale war with no immediate resolution. Israel's rapid and decisive response, mobilizing 300,000 reservists, underscored the vital role these individuals play in addressing warfare and emergencies.

In my capacity as the Force Commander of a 24-nation UN Peacekeeping Force in East Timor from 1999 to 2000, I had the privilege of witnessing the significant contribution of Reserve Forces. Deployed by Troop Contributing Nations in conflict areas, these forces exhibited no discernible differences in professionalism, performance quality, and mission accomplishments when compared to their regular counterparts. Their value was acknowledged by governments and political leadership both in times of peace and war.

Contrastingly, the situation in our motherland, the Philippines, presents a different narrative. Persistent bullying from China in the West Philippine Sea has left our nation reliant on diplomatic protests and the hope of U.S. intervention under the Mutual Defense Treaty. Regrettably, a culture of dependence has taken root in our national survival strategy, criticized for lacking the passion and sincerity needed to defend our rights and freedom. Mere condemnation from our leaders, without the backing of military force and a readiness to fight, appears insufficient. As we witness this geopolitical struggle, it becomes clear that achieving a robust defense posture requires more than words; it necessitates tangible and strategic action.

The Philippines is undergoing a gradual shift in defense strategy, moving from internal operations to external defense. This shift highlights the urgent need for the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). Furthermore, the U.S. plans to establish additional Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) facilities within our country, prompting a renewed focus on upgrading our war capabilities. However, the linchpin for building a rational defense posture lies in the development of a practical and workable reserve program.

Enter the Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC), a fundamental component instilling values of patriotism and nationalism in our youth. Despite facing obstacles, including a hazing incident resulting in the tragic death of a cadet, the ROTC program remains crucial. Unfortunately, political will to restore the ROTC program and develop a credible reserve capability is lacking. Congress hesitates to pursue legislative initiatives, citing a perceived lack of urgency. This hesitancy, compounded by the executive-legislative disconnect and divergent interests influenced by personal agendas, undermines our firm resolve and concept of nationhood.

While nations like Israel, South Korea, and Singapore mandate military training for their youth, the same cannot be said for our country. Only a negligible number attend ROTC, and although the National Service Training Program (NSTP) is offered, it has failed to ignite the passion to fight for national survival. Many countries draw strength from defining historical moments that contribute to national pride and economic growth. In our case, heroes from various wars and peacekeeping efforts, many emerging from the ranks of reservists, embody bravery and valor forged through challenging encounters.

Nonetheless, it must be equally emphasized that a credible reserve force satisfies non-military roles essential to nation-building. In a country frequently visited by natural calamities like typhoons and earthquakes, an organized and professional force capable of responding to extreme emergencies is paramount. Unfortunately, our track record in disaster, relief, and rehabilitation operations has been rather dismal, with political factors significantly influencing management, treating these operations as opportunities for political mileage.

During the pre-martial law period, ROTC cadets were deputized by the COMELEC to perform election duties, executing them creditably well. The ROTC instilled in them a deep sense of discipline and loyalty to the flag. The framework for reservist training, revolving around relevant military values of discipline, leadership, decision-making, physical fitness, stability under pressure, and a deep sense of responsibility, finds application in national development projects and programs. Importantly, it must not be viewed as militarization.

In conclusion, the primary factor hindering the development of a credible reserve force program in the Philippines is political in nature. The expanding executive-legislative divide risks creating an irreversible situation, awakening us only when war is already at our doorstep.

A credible reserve force, with its dual focus on defense and socio-economic concerns, is indispensable for our survival. As we navigate the complex landscape of geopolitical challenges, building a resilient nation requires a commitment to developing a practical and workable reserve program. It is not just a matter of military readiness; it is a fundamental aspect of our national identity and the safeguarding of our collective future.

(Lt. Gen. Jaime S. de los Santos served with distinction as a military professional, 42nd Commanding Gen. Philippine Army, 1st Force Commander, UN Multi-National Peacekeeping Force in East Timor, former member, UP Board of Regents and Professorial Lecturer II (part-time), UP-Diliman.)