Philippine Army (PA) commander Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay made this assurance as he lauded the unit for the critical role it is playing in nation-building during his visit to Arescom headquarters in Camp Riego De Dios, Tanza, Cavite on Wednesday.
“Transitioning to the new normal, we shall also preserve and sustain the capabilities of the Force through aggressive Covid-19 information campaign, responsive health-related programs, and security and logistics support to various government programs,” he said.
Gapay also met with Arescom personnel led by Maj. Gen. Peale Jon Bondoc to convey his guidance on strengthening the Army’s reserve component.
As a combat service support unit, Arescom administers the recruitment, training, and management of Army reservists in the country who will provide support in socio-economic development, environmental protection, and disaster and rescue operations.
In the past five months, Arescom has provided 929 development related initiatives and humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations including evacuation assistance, repacking, and distribution of relief goods during the Taal Eruption, Typhoon Ursula, and the current Covid-19 crisis.
In line with the PA modernization efforts, Arescom further developed the Ready Reserve and Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) units; the Arescom Training School; and provisionally activated the 1st Community Defense Brigade.
It has also institutionalized school and university-wide recruitment of ROTC cadets.
“By aiming to be the future Army, Arescom is on the right track. By practicing excellence, we will all win,” Gapay said.
The Reserve Force’s mission is to provide a base for the expansion of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in the event of war, invasion, and rebellion, or during national emergencies.
Reserve components are also tasked to assist in relief and rescue operations during disaster or calamities, in socio-economic development, and in the operation and maintenance of essential government or private utilities in the furtherance of the overall mission as stated in Republic Act. No. 7077 or the Citizen Armed Forces of the Philippines Reservist Act.
