The 107,000-strong reservists in the country should play an active role in defending and safeguarding the Philippines’ sovereignty amid political tensions and challenges in the West Philippine Sea, Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino said. 

Tolentino made the call during the 45^th Reservist Week at Camp Aguinaldo, where he emphasized the importance of “a robust and ready reserve that cannot be overstated.”

“The reserve force is a symbol, a testament to every Filipino, and serves and safeguards our sovereignty,” Tolentino said.

“As we face further uncertainties in the region, it becomes imperative that we continue to strengthen capabilities, training, and support for our reservists,” the senator stressed. 

An active member of the military’s reserve force himself, Tolentino lauded the reservists’ role as professionals building the nation as well as defenders and humanitarian responders.

Tolentino, who has a rank of Brigadier General, has authored two proposed laws — the Maritime Zones Law and the Archipelagic Sea Lanes Law — as contributions to strengthen the Philippines’ claim over the territorial waters, endowments, and entitlements around the country based on international laws.

The Maritime Zones bill is now awaiting President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos’ approval. The Senate, last August 19, ratified the bicameral conference committee version of the measure. 

The Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes bill on the other hand is up for the bicameral conference committee’s discussion. 

“These proposed laws have long-lasting effects on our sovereignty,” the lawmaker said.

“Let us also be reminded that 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,” he stressed.