The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Wednesday reaffirmed its commitment to enhance the capabilities of all its reserve units.

In a statement, the AFP noted that these reserve units are crucial in beefing up the force readiness and whole-of-nation defense of the military.

The AFP said the reservist’s role as a “vital pillar of national defense” was highlighted during the 2025 Reservist National Convention and 2nd Association of Reservists and Reservist Administrators of the Philippines Incorporated (ARRAPI) General Assembly on Monday.

Anchored on the theme “Adapting to an Evolving Security Environment: Reservists at the Forefront of Cooperative Defense,” the event underscored that strengthening the reserve force also strengthens the entire AFP.

The activity was graced by Department of National Defense Undersecretary Pablo Lorenzo and AFP vice chief of staff Lt. Gen. Jimmy Larida, who emphasized the value of reservist units in readiness, reliability, and strategic value.

“Together, let us show the Filipino people that in every challenge, every crisis, and every threat — the AFP stands ready because the Filipino reservists stand ready,” Larida said in his message.

The event drew over 4,500 reservists from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, with thousands others participating via Zoom. (PNA)