By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) is in favor of the proposal made by Vice President-elect Sara Duterte-Carpio to introduce mandatory military service in the country.

Capt. Kim Apitong, 3ID spokesperson, said at present there is no law or mandate for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to require military service, although he pointed out that if introduced, it could be compared to the current two-year national service requirement in South Korea.

Apitong said even though they still do not have the complete details of the proposal, adding mandatory military service will have a good effect for the country.

He pointed out people will become more prepared if the country faces external threats such as an invasion, or in times of disasters will offer more manpower to effectively conduct rescue and relief operations.

Apitong also pointed out other benefits wherein individuals who complete their mandatory military service are more skilled and efficient when they return to civilian life./DGB, WDJ