NAVAL STATION JOSE ANDRADA, Manila – 119 patriotic volunteers were formally integrated in the Philippine Navy Reserve Force during the Closing Ceremony of Basic Citizen Military Course (BCMC) Classes 01-24, 02-24, and 03-24 at Basco Municipal Gymnasium, Basco, Batanes with Vice Admiral Toribio D. Adaci Jr. PN, the Flag Officer In Command, Philippine Navy (FOIC, PN), and Honorable Marilou H. Cayco, Governor, Province of Batanes as the Guest of Honor and Speaker on Saturday, March 9, 2024. Notably, Governor

Cayco has been a naval reservist since 2017 with the rank of Master Sergeant.

The Flag Officer In Command emphasized the strengthening of the PN reserve force as a significant contributor to the Navy's Active Archipelagic Defense Strategy by bolstering PN capabilities in projecting the naval force in the  EEZ and extending in-depth defensive posture in order to protect the Philippine territory. Furthermore, Reservists play a vital role in strengthening the Philippine Navy by providing additional manpower, expertise, and support during emergencies, training exercises, and operational deployments. Their contributions are instrumental in enhancing maritime security and disaster response as they bring valuable civilian skills and knowledge to the naval organization.

The newly graduated PN Reservists will help strengthen the defense of our northern maritime areas. They were trained and organized by the Naval Reserve Command headed by MGen Joseph Ferrous S Cuison PN(M), Naval Forces Northern Luzon, and the Naval Reserve Center Northern Luzon. They will also serve as force multipliers, boosting maritime security in Batanes. Additionally, they will assist in emergencies and calamities as needed. With the help of the new reservists, the Navy can broaden, deepen, and seamlessly operate under the context of the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept.

This successful event is a manifestation of the Philippine Navy’s strong resolve and commitment in taking bold steps in protecting the country's maritime rights and interests and the development of the maritime economy.

PUBLISHED BY:    Naval Public Affairs Office (NPAO) CDR JOHN PERCIE A ALCOS PN(GSC) Director, Naval Public Affairs Office