SENATOR Robinhood Padilla on Sunday said that a trained citizenry with skills and discipline sharpened through the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps is needed to defend the country from foreign invaders.

Padilla pointed out that more than “keyboard warriors,” what the country needs is a trained and organized youth in case the Philippines will be affected by the tensions in Asia and other parts of the world.

He expressed hope that young people who show courage only through their posts online will join the disciplined and trained force willing to defend the country.

“Walang masama ang taong handa. Ang pinakapalpak sa lahat ng tao ‘yung hindi handa,” the senator said.

Padilla pointed out there are many developments worldwide that could affect the Philippines, including the war in Ukraine and the tension in Taiwan.

He noted that while South Korea and Singapore are prepared due to their mandatory military service requirement for citizens, the Philippines is not.

“Tayo lang ang relax na relax, relax na relax tayong mga Pilipino,” he said.

The senator said he cannot understand the arguments of some sectors that ROTC may restrict freedom, pointing out that the program trains young citizens to help protect freedom.