SENATE President Juan Miguel Zubiri yesterday said he joined the Army’s reserve force so he would be prepared in case the government needs his service.
He said he and the Philippine Army share the responsibility of protecting the sovereignty and democracy of the country while advocating for the military’s modernization and increase in budget in the Senate.
“It is a great honor to finally come to the culmination of that partnership, as I now take on the responsibility of being a reserve Lieutenant Colonel of the Army, prepared to defend the country not only in the halls of the Senate but also out in our war rooms and on the field, alongside you all,” Zubiri said.
“It is not a responsibility I take lightly. I respect that as men and women of the Army, you have devoted yourselves entirely to the defense of the nation. Your skills, judgment and dedication are beyond compare, and no reservist can ever hope to measure up to you,” he added.
Zubiri was sworn in as an army reservist amid the escalation of tensions in the West Philippine as China continued to bully Philippine vessels within the country’s exclusive economic zone.
In a recent survey, majority of Filipinos said they are willing to fight for their country’s territory and sovereignty.
Zubiri has been very vocal against the actions of China and has stood up, on numerous occasions, to denounce the illegal activities of the global superpower in the Philippines’ territory and exclusive economic zone.
“I stand before you today to prove that we walk our talk in the Senate. I am ready to assist the country in times of crisis or when the need arises,” he said.
“At the end of the day, whatever hat I am wearing — whether as a legislator or a reservist — my service to this country can be traced down to one simple truth: I love our country and I love our people,” he added.
In a chance interview after the ceremonies at Camp Aguinaldo, Zubiri said joining the reserve force does not necessarily mean that he is preparing to go to war with other countries but to prepare himself to respond to other challenges like during calamities.
