Laang Kawal Party-list pushes stronger support for reservists in Zambo
Laang Kawal Party-list
MANILA, Philippines – Laang Kawal Party-list on April 5, 2025, gathered with various community groups in Barangay Sto. Niño, Zamboanga City to call for increased support for military reservists and civilian volunteers involved in national defense and disaster response.
The gathering was attended by first nominee Lt. Col. Jaime Roberto Almario, second nominee Col. Noel Detoyato, third nominee Lt. Col. Jannette Chavez-Arceo, and 1st Lt. Ronnie Liang.
In his address, Almario highlighted the significance of military reservists. “Alam niyo ba kung bakit ‘kawal’ ang tawag sa atin? Dahil inilalaan natin ang ating oras at buhay para sa bayan—ng walang hinihintay na kapalit,” Almario said. “Kapag tayo’y napasok sa Kongreso, magiging ganap tayong reservist—na may lakas, insurance, at higit sa lahat, uniporme.”
Detoyato spoke about the role of reservists in national peace and recovery efforts, citing the recovery of Marawi. “Gusto natin ng katahimikan dahil ‘yan ang sinisimbolo ng totoong kahulugan ng Zamboanga—‘City of Flowers’,” he said. “Tulad ng Marawi, na ngayon ay unti-unting nakakaahon sa tulong ng ating mga reservist at volunteers.”
Chavez-Arceo emphasized the importance of strengthening the reserve force. “Mahirap kapag may digmaan o kalamidad na kinakaharap ang ating bansa,” she said. “Mainam na palakasin ang ating mga reservist o volunteers upang tumulong sa panahon ng krisis at sumuporta sa ating mga regular na sundalo.”
Liang, a reservist officer and public figure, also participated, lending support to efforts aimed at increasing awareness about the role of reservists and volunteers.
The gathering was attended by various community groups, including members of the 9051st RRIBn Zamboanga City, 1604th CDC Basilan, Senior Citizens group, Solo Parents Association, Eagles Club Western Mindanao Region 12, LGBTQ+ communities, DeMolay International, and the Barangay Council of Sto. Niño.
