THE Philippine Army, Navy, and Air Force, in collaboration with the Commission on Higher Education-Davao Region, organized the first-ever National Service Training Program (NSTP) and Reserved Training Corps (ROTC) Directors/Coordinator Summit at the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) gymnasium on Friday morning, July 28.

The event aims to raise awareness about the mandatory ROTC, garner support, and gather feedback from various stakeholders to ensure a smooth program implementation.

Ched Regional Director Dr. Maricar R. Casquejo, CESO 3, underscored the importance of disseminating accurate and valid information to inspire more individuals to support their efforts. Ched is committed to sharing information and addressing any concerns arising during the program's execution.

For nearly 20 years, the ROTC had been inactive due to the Republic Act No. 9163, also known as the National Training Program Act of 2001, which led to the abolition of the ROTC program in 2002.

However, with Congress expected to pass the Mandatory ROTC Program, it is anticipated that the government will gradually reintroduce it next year.

"The youth are the bridge between the past, the present, and the future. They must serve the country and defend the identity and integrity of the Republic when their time comes," Philippine Army Reserve Commander MGen. Romulo A. Manuel Jr. said.

Apart from the 2023 ROTC Games and this summit, Ched and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) are planning to organize a fun run, expecting 10,000 participants from the region.

Meanwhile, youth groups like Gabriela expressed concern that government officials prioritize mandatory ROTC over other pressing health-related issues.

"Mas ginasulong pa ang pagbalik sa sa mandatory ROTC, usa ka dakong hulga lang kini sa kaluwasan ug kaayuhan sa mga batan-on, ilabina ang kababaihan ug ubang minorya isip mekanismo nga nakagamot sa sexism, misogyny, macho-pyudal (Government officials are pushing more for the revival of the mandatory ROTC, which poses a significant threat to the safety and well-being of the youth, especially women and other minorities, as it perpetuates sexism, misogyny, and macho-feudalism," Gabriela Youth Davao spokesperson Sakura Nemis said. (RGP)