Almario advocates for Filipino reservists' rights and resources

Lt. Col. Jaime Roberto Almario is a strong advocate for the 1.2 million reservists in the Philippines. He serves as the first nominee of the Laang Kawal Partylist. Almario's background includes a long military career and a successful business in telecommunications. Almario began his military journey after earning a sociology degree in 1990. He has spent nearly two decades in the Army Reserve Command, committing to significant training each year. His experiences, especially during the Marawi siege in 2017, shaped his leadership approach. During the Marawi conflict, Almario was one of only three reservists from Manila called to support the military. He quickly left his civilian life to assist on the front lines, using his telecommunication skills to maintain crucial military communications. Conditions were harsh, and he faced many dangers. His time in Marawi deepened his respect for active-duty soldiers. He witnessed their struggles and the challenges they faced due to limited resources. Almario now aims to improve the lives of reservists, advocating for better support and recognition. Almario proposes updates to the Reservist Act of 1991, highlighting the need for health and accident insurance for reservists during their training. He believes this will show a serious commitment to their welfare. He also encourages training young people in cyber skills to protect against modern threats. In his civilian role, Almario has provided essential resources to the government during emergencies, showcasing his ability to adapt under pressure. His experiences motivate him to push for better resources and support for reservists as they play a critical role in national defense. Almario's journey illustrates the importance of reservists in the Philippines. He continues to fight for policy changes that respect and equip these citizen-soldiers, ensuring they are ready to meet any challenge.