The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) culminated the week-long celebration of the 46th National Reservist Week with a ceremony at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City. With this year’s theme, “Katuwang sa Kapayapaan at Kaunlaran ng Bagong Pilipinas,” the event honored the contributions and sacrifices of the country’s citizen soldiers who continue to support the AFP’s mission of safeguarding the nation.

On behalf of Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr., Undersecretary Ireneo C. Espino attended the event, together with AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo S. Brawner Jr. and Major General Gerold N. Gagan, Deputy Chief of Staff for Reserve Force Development, J9, along with other key defense and military officials.

During the ceremony, outstanding reservist units and individual personnel were recognized for exemplary service. The event also featured dynamic demonstrations of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) operations and wargaming simulations, showcasing the skill, preparedness, and operational capability of the AFP Reserve Force.

In his keynote address, General Romeo S. Brawner Jr. emphasized the vital role of reservists in national security and unity: “Your service reminds us that defending the nation is not just the job of those in uniform, but a responsibility shared by every Filipino. You embody the spirit of Bayanihan, showing that when we unite, there is no challenge too great for our people."

The culminating event reflects the AFP’s continuing effort to inspire more Filipinos to serve and to recognize those who have chosen to answer the call — in uniform and in service to the nation.