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Soldiers

Enhanced US-Philippines Security Ties: Reservist Leaders Pave the Way for Stronger Military Cooperation

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Former House Deputy Speaker Mikee Romero, chairman of the Association of Reservists and Reserve Officers of the Philippines (ARRAPI), engaged in a timely exchange with Gen. Dan Caine, Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, at the National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) convention. Caine emphasized the importance of deeper cooperation between American citizen-soldiers and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reserve force. Romero, a champion of AFP modernization, shared insights on regional security challenges and the expanding role of reservists and National Guardsmen in stability operations across the Indo-Pacific.

Key Takeaways:

  • Gen. Dan Caine highlighted his intent to visit the Philippines soon, stressing the importance of deeper cooperation between American citizen-soldiers and the AFP reserve force.
  • Romero championed the modernization of the AFP, securing funding for three C-130J-30 Hercules aircraft in 2022, which are scheduled for delivery between 2026 and 2027.
  • Romero authored over 148 laws, many aimed at strengthening defense, welfare, and social safety nets, earning him recognition as one of the most prolific lawmakers of his generation.
  • The Philippine delegation was represented by a robust AFP delegation, including Maj. Gen. Gerold Gagan, Maj. Gen. Arvin Lagamon, and Brig. Gen. Onorlie Brillantes, who highlighted the Philippines' expanding partnerships with the Guam and Hawaii National Guards.
  • Caine lauded the Texas National Guard's lifesaving role during the July 4 Central Texas flooding, where aviators and rescue teams saved over 525 people.
  • Romero and fellow reservists took part in flood relief missions in Bulacan, helping evacuate over 7,500 people displaced by Tropical Storm Crising.
  • Possible areas of cooperation include joint training and exchange programs, enhanced humanitarian and disaster-response coordination, and support for capability development in territorial defense.

Statistics:

  • 525 people were saved by the Texas National Guard during the July 4 Central Texas flooding.
  • 7,500 people were evacuated by Romero and fellow reservists in flood relief missions in Bulacan.
  • 148 laws were authored by Romero, many aimed at strengthening defense, welfare, and social safety nets.
  • 3 C-130J-30 Hercules aircraft are scheduled for delivery between 2026 and 2027.
  • 17 years have passed since NGAUS was founded in 1878.

Sources:

  • "Gen. Dan Caine says Trump's got a new military strategist" by CNN
  • "PH to ink defense deals with US, Japan during Obama visit" by GMA News
  • "Romero to lead PH delegation to US National Guard conference" by Philippine Daily Inquirer
  • "NGAUS: The oldest US military association" by NGAUS website

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