Laang Kawal ng Pilipinas Partylist's second nominee, Retired Col. Noel "Toodz" Detoyato, aims to push for stronger protections for soldiers and reservists in Congress, underscoring the importance of "defending the defenders."
In the Bakit Ikaw: The DZRH Job Interview on Wednesday, Detoyato noted that, for a long time, soldiers have been without a representation in Congress.
"Ang ating mga retirado, ang ating mga reservist, ay marginalized. Saka lang namin narealized na marginalized pala kami because nobody among our ranks is speaking in behalf of us," Detoyato mentioned.
He further highlighted their push to ensure the health and benefits of soldiers, including reservists, where retired soldiers are automatically considered part of the reserve force.
Priority legislation to push in Congress
The retired soldier reiterated that the main duty of Congress members is lawmaking, which is why the first priority of their party-list is to amend or refile Republic Act 7077.
He stressed the need to include the role of retired members of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in the law.
Moreover, he mentioned the need to pass legislation that allocates funds for the development of the country's reserve force.
"Ang ating reservists mismo, na i-call to active duty mo, hindi mo siya mabibigyan ng proper tools to defend our country," said Detoyato.
Citing the tension in the West Philippine Sea, he reiterated that the country must be better prepared to defend its territory, emphasizing that a vote for their party-list is also a vote for national security.
Additionally, they aim to include in the law the provision of death benefits for volunteers, in addition to health benefits.
"Isasama na natin sa batas [ang mga reservists] pati ang mga benefits na makukuha nila when they are on duty," he added.
Benefits to provide for soldiers and reservists
Detoyato emphasized that his top agenda is to advocate for funding for the 1.9 million reservists, acknowledging that while they have limited equipment, they are properly trained and prepared for any circumstances.
"They can pull the trigger kung kinakailangan. Pero what trigger will they pull kung wala naman tayong equipment?" he questioned.
He further stated that if he gets a seat in Congress, they won’t just give out combat boots or uniforms, but will work on passing laws to secure funding for these necessities.
"We are going to protect them with laws, batas ang kailangan nila. Para kahit magpalit-palit man ng administrasyon, magpalit ng leadership sa AFP, magpalit ng lahat diyan, ang batas naandon pa rin," he added.
Notably, it is stated in Republic Act 7077 that all able-bodied Filipinos aged 18 to 25 are required to undergo basic citizen’s military training. Additionally, graduates of the CWTS under the NSTP program are also considered reservists.
Before becoming a nominee for the Laang Kawal ng Pilipinas Partylist, he served as the former Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Public Affairs Chief and as the former Spokesperson for the Philippine Army.
