Manila: The Philippine Army is calling for more volunteers to sign up for its Ready Reserve Battalion (RRB) in Negros Oriental to serve during national emergencies and to support regular forces during national security threats. Col. William Pesase, who heads the 703rd Community Defense Center of the 7th Regional Community Defense Group, Reserve Command of the Philippine Army, said on Monday that the current strength of the battalion in the province is not fully complemented yet.

According to Philippines News Agency, Pesase hopes that more volunteers will understand the role of Army reservists who will be mobilized to respond to national emergencies, socio-economic development, and disasters, referencing the West Philippine Sea issue and the restive Mt. Kanlaon. Pesase is urging volunteer Negrenses to step forward and play a vital role in disaster response, community support, and territorial defense by joining the reserve force.

On Sunday afternoon, five reservist officers and 100 enlisted reservists of the RRB's Alpha Company completed a 10-day Company Integration Training held at the 11th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army based in Siaton, Negros Oriental. Pesase stated that the training aims to enhance the capabilities of trainees to conduct company operations as the reservist force serves as a base for expansion and integration into regular forces.

He mentioned that the reserve force development program trains reservists in the same manner as regular troops, including marksmanship and the use of firearms. Reservists are not full-time and return to their respective professions or jobs until they are called to serve on active duty when necessary.

The 703rd Community Defense Center and the Reserve Ready Battalion are based at Camp Leon Kilat in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental.