UP Los Baños Professor dons rank as AFP Reservist

CAMP GENERAL EMILIO AGUINALDO, Quezon City – Dr. Fernando C. Sanchez, Professor of Horticulture at the University of the Philippines Los Baños donned rank as Lieutenant Colonel of the Philippine Army Reserve on January 28.

The Donning of Ranks Ceremony was led by the AFP Chief of Staff General Gilbert Gapay at the General Headquarters Building, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

Widely recognized as one of the country’s esteemed pioneers in the profession of horticulture and landscape development, Ltc Sanchez has worked on the design, rehabilitation, and development of various well-known buildings, such as the Philippine General Hospital and the Dr. Jose Rizal Centennial Marker at Hibiya Park, Tokyo, Japan.

One of his recent selfless deeds was taking part in the establishment of the UPLB COVID-19 Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, a subnational COVID-19 testing center in response to the pandemic.

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“Ltc Sanchez’s contribution to national development bespeaks of his virtue as a reserve officer, who serves for our country and its people without asking for anything in return, and who supports our ventures in attaining peace, security, and development,” General Gapay said.

The Army Reserve Command (ARESCOM or RESCOM) was enacted through Republic Act 7077, also known as the “Armed Forces of the Philippines Reservist Act.” It gives the base to the extension of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in the occasion of war, invasion or rebellion, to help assist in relief and amid disasters or calamities, to help with socioeconomic development and to help with the operation and upkeep of key government or private utilities in the assistance of general mission.

Ltc Sanchez’s contributions are an example that the reserve force greatly impacts the operational effectiveness and organizational efficiency of the AFP.

“The expertise and skills you continue to share are very much needed in attaining our shared aspirations for the environment and for the future generations. May every Filipino draw inspiration from your illustrious work as horticulturist and your unfailing commitment as a reserve officer,” the AFP Chief told the honoree./// (Photos by SN1 Donald Viluan PN/PAOAFP)