1-Pacman Rep. Romero levels up military reservists鈥� moves for service
Whether in law-making or peacekeeping, the impact of being a “force multiplier” is keenly needed by the country.
Rep. Mikee Romero, who recently clocked in a nine-year term in Congress with the 1-Pacman party-list, recently addressed the biggest-ever gathering of military reservists in the Philippines and cited reservists as vital movers not just for peace and order but also for critical times.
As chairman of the Association of Reservists and Reservist Administrators of the Philippines Inc. (ARRAPI), Romero, who is ranked lieutenant colonel with the Reserve Force, said, “We stand as a critical force multiplier for the Armed Forces of the Philippines, ready to step up when the nation calls.”
“Whether in times of peace, calamity, or conflict, our unity and preparedness ensure that we can effectively contribute to protecting and serving our fellow Filipinos,” added Romero in welcoming some 3,000
delegates to the AFP Reservists National Convention CY 2024 and First ARRAPI General Assembly at the SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City last December 7.
The back-to-back event was held by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) through the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Reservist and Retiree Affairs, J9, in collaboration with the ARRAPI.
Article continues after this advertisementPhilippine Army Major General Joel Alejandro S. Nacnac, who heads the ARRAPI Advisory Board, cited the convention as a reflection of shared commitment, and a demonstration of the power that arises when the Filipino people unify with purpose.
He also urged the attendees to embody the spirit of “Tatag ng Nagkakaisang Laang Kawal Para sa Bagong Pilipinas,” to continuously strive for deeper collaboration and excellence to serve the country with honor.
Among senior leaders from the AFP and Department of National Defense (DND) who addressed the body were Maj. General Pablo E. Rustria Jr., Commander, Air Force Reserve Command, Philippine Air Force; Commodore Lemuel E. Espartinez, Commander, Naval Reserve Command, Philippine Navy; Lt. General Roy M. Galileo, Commanding General, Philippine Army; General Romeo S. Brawner Jr., Chief of Staff, AFP; and Undersecretary Pablo Lorenzo, DND.
State partnership program counterparts from the Guam and Hawaii National Guards headed by Colonel Manuel Duenas, US Army, and Colonel John V. Udani, US Army, also attended the event.
The event also hosted an exhibit joined by 25 organizations and companies showcasing their advocacies, services, and products.
The 1-Pacman party-list, which authored and sponsored 144 laws in nine years, presented its advocacy for sports and youth development.
With its booth set up at the event, the 1-Pacman party-list expressed how youth involvement in sports leads to wellness and being in tip-top shape in body, mind, and spirit.
The first nominee of 1-Pacman for the 2025 forthcoming polls is Milka Romero, who is also a Philippine Navy reservist, having completed her Basic Citizen and Military Course this year.
The 3,000 attendees of the convention came from all over the country.
READ: Navy reservists join mobilization exercise
“The convention and assembly are not just opportunities to strengthen our camaraderie but also to discuss how we can further elevate our service. Let us seize this chance to align our goals, share best practices, and innovate ways to fulfill our responsibilities with greater efficiency and impact,” Congressman and Reservist Lt.Col. Romero also conveyed to his fellow reservists.
