In a proactive response to the current maritime developments at the West Philippine Sea, the labor group Federation of Free Workers (FFW) championed the idea of prioritizing the development and deployment of citizen soldiers.
“The defense of the country against foreign aggression or protecting our territorial integrity is a duty of every citizen, not only the AFP,” stressed FFW National President Jun M. Ramirez, adding that this sentiment reflects the essence of a united front in safeguarding the nation’s territories.
Ramirez further explained: “This initiative steers away from military alone and the common practice of merely increasing intelligence funds and seeks a more direct and participative method to support the national interest.”
MARITIME MILITIA
Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief, has confirmed this strategy, envisioning the formation of a maritime militia.
This body will primarily be sourced from the AFP’s reserve force, including potential candidates from the fisherfolk community, thereby fortifying the link between defense operations and grassroots participation.
The FFW said their group strongly supports the AFP’s initiative, underscoring the vital role of citizen participation in defense strategies.
COLLECTIVE RESPONSIBILITY
FFW National Treasurer Alfredo Maranan opined, “The collective responsibility to defend our nation transcends the military or our navy. It rests with every Filipino.”
He added that the FFW fervently believes that empowering citizen soldiers is pivotal in asserting our national rights and interests.
“This grassroots approach not only enhances our maritime defenses but also deepens our collective commitment to preserving the integrity and sovereignty of the Philippine territories,” added Maranan, who hails from the coastal town of Nasugbu, Batangas
