THE guest speaker is actor and singer Ronnie Liang at the ongoing National Youth Convention here in Baguio City.
The National Youth Commission spearheads the program.
More than 1,800 young government leaders from the Philippines are participating in the event.
As an Army Reservist, he aims to convey the importance of military training, especially for the youth.
“It’s important because, as Doc Jose Rizal said, the youth is the hope of the nation. But, if I may add, the youth with fear of God, discipline, dreams, and aspirations to serve the nation is the real hope of the nation,” according to Ronnie Liang, Celebrity AFP Reservist.
Liang is a reservist in the Philippine Army with the rank of first lieutenant.
He is also a licensed commercial pilot.
He emphasizes that the discipline instilled through military training is a significant help in his personal life.
“My love for the country grew even stronger. I was able to be exposed to different sectors, and I saw the importance of helping. You know, because the government can’t do it alone. They need our help. They need you, they need me, they need all of us,” Liang added.
Vice President Sara Duterte personally advocates for the reinstatement of mandatory Reserve Officers’ Training Corps or ROTC.
For high school students, this is equivalent to Citizenship Advancement Training (CAT).
According to Liang, these programs are a significant help for the youth.
“Right now, we have 1.2 Million reservists. Some, like a good example is Ukraine and Israel, have their reservists. South Korea, right? They have… 2 years of training even if you’re into K-pop (it’s mandatory). While here, if ever, it’s just once a week,” Liang stated.
Once Mandatory ROTC is reintroduced in schools, the Armed Forces expects to add two million reservists every year.
The country’s standby reserve forces will also expand, ready to be activated for service as needed.
Apart from Liang, notable celebrity reservists include Rocco Nacino, Matteo Guidicelli, and Dingdong Dantes.
Before entering the competition, Ms. Universe Philippines Michelle Dee also underwent military reservist training, expressing her dream of being part of the Philippine Army.
“I encourage everyone to join us! To be a member of the reserve force. Let’s help each other, come together for our nation. No one will help the Filipino except fellow Filipinos. Thank you very much,” Liang said.
