More and more celebrities are joining the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) as reservists, and the latest addition is Carlos Yulo, a two-time Olympic gold medalist from the 2024 Paris Olympics. He took his oath before MGen. Joseph Ferrous Cuison PN(M), Commander of the Naval Reserve Command, yesterday, October 1, 2024. In addition to being the son of Angelica Poquiz-Yulo and fiancé of Chloe San Jose, he is now also known as Petty Officer 1st Class (PO1) Carlos Edriel Yulo PN (Res).
Politicians and celebrities join the Reserve Force for various reasons.
According to an article posted on the Official Website of the Philippine Navy, “The ceremony exemplifies the PN’s commitment to nurturing exceptional individuals who embody the values of discipline, dedication, and service, with the continuous mission to inspire the Filipino people and uplift the nation.” However, some rumormongers and privacy-invading bashers of the most decorated Filipino gymnast have suddenly criticized the Philippine Navy’s decision over social media, claiming that Yulo is unworthy of such an appointment because he cannot serve as a role model for Filipino children.
These detractors have accused Carlos Yulo of being an ungrateful son with low family values—criticisms that have little to do with his patriotism. My stance is this: Yulo’s enlistment in the reserve armed forces is unrelated to any internal issues with his family.
The Citizen Armed Force, or Reserve Force, was created by Republic Act 7077, Article III, on July 23, 1990. The mission of the Reserve Force is to provide the base for expanding the Armed Forces of the Philippines in the event of war, invasion, or rebellion; assist in relief and rescue during disasters or calamities; contribute to socioeconomic development; and help in the operation and maintenance of essential government or private utilities, furthering the overall mission. The law does not specify anything about personal family matters or character as criteria for becoming a reservist—factors that have little to do with national security or the public welfare.
Many politicians are also reservists, particularly at the local government level, and some senators, past and present, have served as reservists. These politicians are relieved of their duties once they file their Certificates of Candidacy (CoC) but remain reservists. For example, Sen. Robinhood Padilla is a reservist, yet no one questioned his private life or family values when he joined the force, despite his checkered past.
In his commendation to Yulo, Philippine Navy Flag Officer in Command, Vice Adm. Toribio Adaci Jr., stated, “Your dedication, discipline, and drive made you a champion on the world stage, and now, you bring those same qualities to the Philippine Navy. We know that when you commit to something, you give it your all. I am confident you will do the same as a reservist, standing alongside men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting and uplifting our nation.”
Two things are clear: First, celebrities and politicians often receive special treatment during training compared to ordinary individuals joining the reserve force. Second, even the Armed Forces require celebrity endorsements for public relations purposes.
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(Photo and Reference: https://navy.mil.ph/article.php?news=twotimeolympicgoldmedalistcarlosyulojoinspnreserveforce)
