RESERVE COMMAND, PHILIPPINE ARMY

MGEN ROMULO A MANUEL JR PA Commander, RESCOM, PA

MGEN ROMULO A MANUEL JR assumed the role of the 26th Commander of the Reserve Command, Philippine Army, starting from 27th February 2023. He is a distinguished graduate of the Philippine Military Academy "Bigkis Lahi" Class of 1990 and has pursued various career paths within the Armed Forces of the Philippines, consistently earning commendations in each role he undertook. This impressive track record is a testament to his exceptional leadership abilities.

Originating from Zamboanga, he began his journey as an Infantry officer, commencing as a lieutenant in the esteemed 36th Infantry (Valor) Battalion, 4th Infantry Division in CARAGA from 1991 to 1996. During his tenure, he was recognized as the "Best Junior Officer" within the 4th Infantry Division, showcasing his exceptional capabilities. Later on, he assumed the role of Commanding Officer of the 35th Infantry (MAKAMANDAG) Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, PA, stationed in the Lanao Region from 2012 to 2014. Under his guidance, the unit attained the esteemed title of the "Best Infantry Battalion" within the 1st Infantry Division, a testament to his leadership acumen.

Concluding his tenure in the Infantry field, he transitioned to the role of strategic planner for the Philippine Army as the Assistant Chief of Staff for Plans, G5, serving from 2018 to 2020. It was during this time that he recognized the growing demand for the Philippine Army's international defense and security engagements, leading him to establish the Office of International Military Affairs (OIMA). This office was established to cater to the expanding requirements of the Philippine Army and facilitate its involvement in international defense affairs.

MGEN MANUEL JR also forged a remarkable career in the Field Artillery, commencing as a Battery Commander and Operations and Training Officer of the 10th Field Artillery Battalion in the CARAGA Region during the intense conflict in Lanao Provinces in 2000. Through this experience, his leadership qualities and technical expertise were further honed. In 2001, he completed the Field Artillery Captain's Career Course at the United States Army Field Artillery School, Fort Sill, USA, which paved the way for him to serve as the Course Director of Field Artillery courses. Subsequently, he assumed the role of Department Head of the Field Artillery Department at the Combat Arms School, Training and Doctrine Command in Fort Magsaysay from 2001 to 2003.

Concluding his impactful tenure in the Artillery field, he held the esteemed position of 8th Regiment Commander of the Army Artillery Regiment (AAR), Philippine Army, from 2020 to 2022. During his time in this role, he spearheaded the development of the AAR's "Performing while Transforming Framework," which propelled the unit to achieve the top-ranking position among the 62 Philippine Army Major Units and HPA Offices in the Philippine Army Force Ranking for 2020. This accomplishment stands as a testament to his strategic vision and effective leadership.

During his Military Intelligence career, MGEN MANUEL JR assumed significant roles in the 10th FAB, 36th Infantry Battalion, and 401st Brigade in Northern Mindanao, as staff in WESMINCOM. In 2005, he had the opportunity to contribute to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) through a foreign posting as a Military Observer and Training Officer in the United Nations Support in East Timor.

Further advancements in his career led him to assume various positions in the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence, J2, AFP in 2006. In 2007, he joined the Intelligence Service, AFP (ISAFP), and eventually became the Group Commander of MIG10, ISAFP, responsible for Region 10 during the all-out war with the MILF in 2008. His exceptional leadership led to his unit being recognized as the "Best MIG of the ISAFP."

From 2015 to 2018, he was assigned as the Philippine Defense and Armed Forces Attaché (PhilDAFA) to Spain, concurrently serving as the Non-Resident Attaché to the United Kingdom, France, and Italy. During his tenure, his post was awarded the distinction of "Best PhilDAFA Post" in 2016. Subsequently, he returned to serve as the Force Commander, Domestic Intelligence Force, ISAFP in 2018.

Concluding his illustrious intelligence career, he held the esteemed position of the 45th Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence, J2, AFP, from 28th February 2022 to 24th October 2022.

This marked the beginning of his journey in the field of Reservists and Retirees Affairs. He was appointed as the Deputy Chief of Staff for Reservist and Retiree Affairs, Affairs, J9, AFP. In this role, he played a pivotal role in empowering the U9s of

the Unified Commands. His efforts focused on institutionalizing the allocation of fund support, enabling effective mobilization and utilization of various ready Reserve Units (RRUs). This led to his current position as the chief in developing the Reserve Force of the Philippine Army.

He significantly enhanced his skills and expertise through a combination of local and international experiences. He successfully completed the Military Intelligence Course in Australia, Peacekeeping Operations Course in India, and International Relations Course in Switzerland. Furthermore, he obtained his Master's Degree in Business Administration from Xavier University and pursued Public Management with a specialization in Development and Security at the Development Academy of the Philippines, all through Government Scholarship Programs. In 2011, he successfully finished the Command and General Staff Course at the Command and General Staff College.

Alongside his professional accomplishments, MGEN MANUEL JR finds fulfillment in his personal life. The success of his military career is complemented by the joy and serenity he experiences in his family life. He is happily married to Elena Tañajora Manuel, and together they have been blessed with two children named Romulo III and Roselyn.