MAGUING, Lanao del Sur — The 11th Field Artillery (Bullseye) Battalion of the Artillery Regiment, Philippine Army, conducted its 5th Live Fire Exercise on March 7–8 at Tower 88 in Barangay Dilimbayan here, reinforcing the operational readiness of artillery units and reservists in support of national defense.
The exercise, led by Lieutenant Colonel Rogelio C. Baytec, commander of the 11th Field Artillery Battalion, formed part of the Field Artillery Gunnery Proficiency Training (FAGPT), which aims to strengthen the technical and operational skills of artillery personnel and ensure accurate and effective fire support operations.
Baytec said the training prepares soldiers for scenarios involving the defense of the country against potential aggressors, especially amid ongoing conflicts in various parts of the world.
“We continue to witness the realities and consequences of war globally. Activities like this ensure our soldiers remain capable and ready to defend our sovereignty and territorial integrity,” he said.
The exercise also involved the participation of the 1st Lanao del Norte Field Artillery Battery as part of its preparation for possible future mobilization.
Baytec emphasized the vital role of reservists in strengthening the country’s defense posture, noting that modern conflicts have shown how reserve forces can significantly support military operations.
“Even without regular pay, we continue training because we want to serve the country and be ready if we are called to duty,” a reservist participant said.
During the exercise, artillery crews fired three types of ammunition commonly used in field artillery operations: illumination rounds to light up target areas, white phosphorus (WP) rounds for marking and obscuration, and high explosive (HE) rounds designed for anti-personnel effects.
The activity also served as the culminating event for soldiers who completed the Field Artillery Gunnery Proficiency Training. Baytec congratulated the participants for successfully finishing the program.
“Continuous training ensures that both our regular forces and reservists remain prepared. When new and more advanced equipment arrives in the future, our trained personnel will already possess the knowledge and discipline needed to operate these systems effectively,” he added.
Several reservists also took part in operating artillery systems during the exercise, demonstrating the growing integration of reserve forces into artillery operations.
Military officials highlighted that reservists provide valuable support to the Armed Forces of the Philippines despite serving largely on a voluntary basis and often receiving only minimal allowances.
A rare experience
Meanwhile, 55th Infantry Battalion Commander Lieutenant Colonel Jerry V. Doldol said guests and visitors were given a rare opportunity to experience firing an artillery piece through the activity known as “take the lanyard and fire the howitzer,” an experience normally limited to trained artillery soldiers.
Sultan Mastura Cosain Manabilang, Sultan of Lanao and municipal administrator of Amai Manabilang, also expressed appreciation to the Philippine Army for conducting the training in the area and recognized the dedication of reservists who continue to serve the country without expecting regular compensation.
He encouraged civilians to support the Armed Forces and contribute to strengthening the country’s defense capabilities.
The Philippine Army continues to conduct regular artillery training and live fire exercises involving both regular troops and reservists to maintain operational readiness and ensure effective fire support capabilities in support of ground operations.
