Sixth District Representative Mercedes Alvarez, now the commanding officer of the 605th Ready Reserve Infantry Battalion in Negros Occidental, is setting her sights on a congressional bill that aims to give privileges to Army Reservists for their voluntary service to the nation.
The Philippine Army (PA) officially designated Alvarez as the battalion’s officer-in-charge (OIC) during a turnover ceremony held on Sunday, July 14 at Panaad Park in Barangay Mansilingan, Bacolod City.
Brigadier General Ted Dumosmog, commander of the 303rd Infantry Brigade, led the installation and turned over command from reservist Major Esther Leah Macatimpag.
Alvarez, a lieutenant colonel in the Army Reserve, seeks to recognize the dedication of reservists who selflessly contribute their time and expertise without compensation. Her proposed legislation aims to institutionalize privileges that reflect the value of their volunteer service.
Bringing both academic and practical credentials to her post, Alvarez is a graduate of the Master in National Security Administration program, equipping her with strategic insight into the security challenges faced by both reservists and the wider community.
Her connection to the military runs deeper, with her husband, Dranreb Lansang, also serving as a commissioned officer in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
The 605th RRIBn operates under the Philippine Army Reserve Command headed by Major General Ramon Zagala, serving as a key force multiplier during emergencies and community-based missions across southern Negros.
Alvarez pledged to lead with integrity and action, bolstering the battalion’s readiness while advancing her new proposed legislation.*
Reymund Titong is a Filipino journalist steadily building his voice in the field of news reporting, driven by a commitment to tell meaningful and relevant stories.
He serves as a correspondent for Rappler, maintains a personal blog on Medium, and is the communications officer of Hope Builders Organization Negros Island.