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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Navy begins training of 51 Senate personnel on basic military course; Padilla denies preparing for 'conflict'

Navy begins training of 51 Senate personnel on basic military course; Padilla denies preparing for 'conflict'

Published Apr 5, 2024 07:23 am
Robin Padilla.jpg
Senator Robinhood Padilla delivers a specch during the convening ceremony of the Basic Citizen Military Course (BCMC) Class 10-2024 at the Senate Building in Pasay City on April 3, 2024. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Navy)

The Philippine Navy (PN) said Friday, April 5, that it has begun training 51 personnel of the Senate of the Philippines who aspire to become part of the Navy’s reserve force but a lawmaker who has been pushing for the endeavor denied this was part of the government’s preparation for a potential "conflict".

The Senate personnel comprised the Basic Citizen Military Course (BCMC) Class 10-2024, a pre-entry training program for them to be part of the PN reserve unit. The class is under the purview of the Naval Reserve Center- National Capital Region headed by Capt. Junmar Sales.

Their training commenced at the Senate Building in Pasay City last April 3, according to Naval Reserve command (NAVRESCOM) commander Maj. Gen. Joseph Ferrous Cuison.

Senator Robinhood Padilla, who earlier pushed for the conduct of basic military training for Senate personnel, graced the ceremony.

The lawmaker expressed the importance of undergoing rigorous training for Senate personnel so they can develop discipline not only for defending the country but also for disaster response.

He, however, clarified that the training does not signify aggression or proclivity to conflict.

“Sa oras ng delubyo o anumang emergency, kailangan tuloy ang serbisyo sa bayan (In times of calamity or any emergency, we need to ensure the continuity of public service),” he said.

Meanwhile, Cuison described the partnership between the Navy and the Senate as a “historic occasion” which “exemplifies the dedication of both civilian and military sectors in safeguarding the sovereignty and well-being of the Filipino people.”

“As challenges to national security persist – both natural and man-made – unity and collaboration remain paramount in upholding the nation's defense and resilience,” he noted.

Related Tags

reserve force Basic military training Robin Padilla Philippine Navy
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