Brian Poe turns over training equipment to Army Reserves amid WPS row
MANILA, Philippines — As tensions in the West Philippine Sea heighten, so is the need for stronger national defense and preparedness.
FPJ Panday Bayanihan Rep. Brian Poe, Lt. Colonel of the Philippine Army Reserve Force, had that in mind as he led the turnover of training equipment to the Philippine Army Reserve Command, underscoring the critical role of reservists in supporting the country’s security, sovereignty, and disaster response efforts.
Poe described the activity as more than a ceremonial handover, framing it as a reaffirmation of the shared commitment of reservists and the Armed Forces to national readiness and public service.
“Today’s activity is more than a simple turnover of equipment. It is a reaffirmation of our shared commitment to preparedness, discipline, and service to our country.”
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Speaking as a reservist himself, Poe emphasized that membership in the reserve force carries real responsibility, particularly as the Armed Forces of the Philippines strengthens its posture to address external threats, natural disasters, and other national emergencies.
“Being a part of the reserve force is not merely a title, it is a responsibility.”
He stressed that effective training is essential to meeting these responsibilities and highlighted the importance of training that is realistic, safe, and effective. The donated equipment, he explained, is intended to help sharpen skills, instill discipline, strengthen teamwork, and build confidence among reservists.
Poe noted that each training activity supported by the equipment contributes to building a more capable and mission-ready force. Recalling his own training experience in the past, he welcomed the use of airsoft rifles, handguns, and pistols as training tools, citing their ability to improve realism while ensuring safety.
“What’s good about this is that our training will be more realistic, more combat-ready for our reservists.”
According to Poe, modern airsoft equipment also allows reservists to become more comfortable with their gear and supports additional training programs for those entering the reserve force.
He described the donation as a modest but meaningful contribution to the mission of the Reserve Command and reaffirmed his support for initiatives that strengthen the armed forces, enhance reservist preparedness, and ensure that Filipino troops remain ready to serve the nation in times of crisis.
At a time when regional tensions underscore the importance of vigilance and unity, Poe said investing in the training and capability of reservists is an investment in the country’s overall resilience and national defense.
