By Edwin Fernandez/Philippine News Agency

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – The commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division (6ID) has called on Army reservists in Central Mindanao to maintain and sustain the spirit of volunteerism, as the country observes the 40th National Reservist Week that started on July 22.
Maj. Gen. Diosdado Carreon made the call as he led the commemoration of the reservist week with the theme: “Laang Kawal: Makabagong Lingkod Bayang Maasahan sa Panahon ng Digmaan, Sakuna at Kapayapaan” at a program held Wednesday at the provincial capitol gymnasium in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat.
Carreon, also the commander of the Joint Task Force Central (JTFC), was welcomed by 12th Regional Community Defense Group commander, Col. Redentor Mojares.
“May you continue to embody the spirit of volunteerism and foster this to the community especially to the younger generation for them to understand the importance of learning the basic discipline of military and how it contributes to their personal well-being,” Carreon told the hundreds of reservists coming from various parts of Central Mindanao.
The military official said he also favors the return of the mandatory Reserve Officers Training Course (ROTC) for senior high school students to instill the values of patriotism and nationalism.
“It takes everyone’s participation to be gained but it is cultured on individual perspectives. Teach one student of its value and he will learn to protect his own peace,” he added.
Also present during the program were Army Reservist, Lt. Col. Suharto Mangudadatu, governor of Sultan Kudarat; Col. Royland Orquia, deputy chief of staff for reservist and retiree affairs; Lt. Col. Henry Estoesta, commander of the 7th Army Reserve Center, Air Force Reserve Command; and School Superintendent and Army Reservist Lt. Col. Bonifacio Ampoyas, school superintendent of Notre Dame of Marbel Schools.
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