Senate President Zubiri Joins Philippine Army Reserve, Emphasizes National Defense
In a significant move that underscores the importance of national service, Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” F. Zubiri has been conferred the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Philippine Army Reserve Force. The formal ceremony, led by Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner, Jr., took place at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City on April 8, 2024.
The Donning of the Ranks Ceremony, a military tradition symbolizing the conferment of authority and responsibility, was attended by notable military personnel and government officials. Zubiri, who has vowed to defend the country not only through his legislative duties but also in uniform, expressed his commitment to the nation’s peace and security.
In his speech, Zubiri highlighted the role of the reserve force and encouraged more Filipinos to join him in this noble cause. He emphasized the collective responsibility of defending the nation, quoting the patriotic line, “Wala nang ibang magtatanggol sa ating bayan kung hindi tayo mismo. Tayo ang maniniguro na ‘sa manlulupig, di pasisiil’ ang ating mahal na Pilipinas,” which translates to “No one else will defend our country but ourselves. We will ensure that ‘to the oppressor, we shall not submit’ our beloved Philippines.”
This development is expected to inspire a wave of patriotism and bolster the ranks of the military reserve with citizens eager to contribute to the country’s defense.