126 PH Navy reservists finish BCMC in Batanes
At least 126 Philippine Navy reservists who will help guard the island frontiers of Batanes including Mavulis Island have graduated from a four-month Basic Citizen Military Course (BCMC) under three classes at the Basco Municipal Gymnasium on Saturday, March 9, the military said.
The reservists will be assigned to safeguard Batanes and Mavulis Island against intruders attempting to usurp the country’s sovereignty, the local officials said during the event aired live by the national government operated Radyo Pilipinas Batanes.
In encouraging more reservists to train in securing the island-province, Basco Mayor German Caccam said during the graduation rites: “You play a vital role in securing Batanes. It is a reminder your contribution is beyond yourselves. Your service will open fellow Ivatans to be reservists too.”
“Your dedication to service to the community is not only commendable but also [helps in] securing our communities. I hope that your success is a beacon for all Ivatans. We can only strengthen our islands,” added Mayor Caccam.
Batanes Gov. Marilou Cayco said the training will help in protecting peace and security, aside from being a force multiplier in securing the island frontiers in Batanes.
“The Navy and Marine reservists are leading volunteers during disasters and calamities. You have a big contribution. As true partners of Ivatans, you have big shoes to fill but with your honor and valor, you will be able to commit in helping instill peace and security,” she added.
The reservists finished battle drills, demonstrations and lectures in areas such as in the Rolling Hills of San Antonio, Basco, Batanes, which were part of their fourmonth training.
Philippine Navy Vice Admiral
Teodoro Adaci Jr. said “the activity aims to establish standardized actions of a team based on frequently encountered scenarios.”
“Squads and platoons use fire and adjust their maneuvers accordingly, so leaders must act quickly to make decisions and give brief spoken commands,” he added.
Under Section 35, Article 7 of Republic Act 7077, it says that the Basic Citizen Military Training (BCMT) course of the Philippine Army aims to strengthen the reserve units to be ready to assist the regular forces during times of war and national emergencies.
Earlier, Defense Secretary Gilberto “Gibo” Teodoro Jr. ordered the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to further expand the military presence in the island province of Batanes by building additional structures and personnel to further strengthen the defense of the country in the said farthest part of Luzon, just 140 kilometers away from Taiwan.
Critical facilities in Batanes which include the Naval Detachment in Basco and the Naval Detachment in Mavulis in the island town of Itbayat, the Itbayat Airport, and the Naval Forward Operating Base being built in Mahatao will all be monitored, said Teodoro.