The chief of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) has advised the participants of the Exercise Pagsasama 2019 to utilize the training to enhance interoperability and develop their skills.
Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Westmincom chief, issued the advice as he keynoted the opening of the 5-day naval exercise Monday at the Naval Station Romulo Espaldon, this city.
“Exercise Pagsasama 2019” is a unilateral exercise being conducted by the Philippine Navy to enhance the regular and reserve force’s capacity to work together in conducting naval operations.
The exercise includes civic actions and community relations activities, training on maritime operations, communication procedures, and information sharing.
“It is widely recognized that knowledge and know-how are the keys to success. But I also agree with the statement uttered by the NBA Coach Pat Riley that if you are not getting better, you are getting worse. So, make the most out of this Pagsasama Training so that you will be able to enhance whatever you have learned and developed in the past,” Sobejana said.
Sobejana said he is certain that through the various scenario-based exercises, the readiness and interoperability will be much enhanced, as the reserve force will be incorporated with the regular force.
“The reservists will always be our partner in the pursuit of our end-state goal- a long-lasting peace and progress which I believe can be achieved through people empowerment in addressing challenging environment and patriotic response to opportunities geared to reinvigorate an economically sustainable society,” he said.
Rear Adm. Erick Kagaoan, Naval Forces Western Mindanao (Navforwem) commander, said the exercise aims to further hone the skills and improve strategies and good leadership while instilling discipline, solidarity, and team work among all participating units.
He said the activity also conducted to enhance the readiness and interoperability between the Philippine Navy units and the Philippine Navy Reserve Force to include the Marine reservists to the call of service in times of national emergencies and disasters. (PNA)
