By Herman M. Lagon

Amidst changing global dynamics and internal obstacles, the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) is at a turning point, ready to reassume its position as a furnace for leadership and national service. Looking back on my time as a reserved officer, I can see how important it is to shape disciplined, patriotic citizens. Our nation needs them right now, along with all our natural and geopolitical challenges.

The ROTC’s legacy dates back to its formal introduction in 1912, initially aimed at preparing students for potential military service. Over the decades, it evolved significantly, impacted by the country’s turbulent history—from American colonization to the throes of post-independence governance. However, the program faced a significant setback in 2001 with the abolition of its mandatory status following the tragic death of Mark Welson Chua, a student who bravely exposed corruption within his unit.

Today, the call for ROTC’s reinstatement resonates louder amidst growing concerns over national security, particularly with the ongoing territorial disputes in the West Philippine Sea. The recent Pulse Asia survey illustrates this shift, with 69% of Filipinos advocating for mandatory ROTC, signaling a strong public desire for robust national defense and disciplined youth.

The envisioned ROTC program could serve as a beacon of discipline and patriotism, essential in a nation prone to natural disasters and external threats. Through rigorous training, ROTC cadets could develop into committed, law-abiding citizens with leadership skills vital for both military and civilian sectors. Moreover, participation in ROTC could enhance physical fitness, contribute to personal health, and offer career pathways through military and related civilian roles, complemented by scholarships and educational benefits.

However, the program’s reinstatement has its challenges. To avoid falling into the same traps, it is necessary to resolve past complaints regarding human rights violations and mismanagement. The tragic story of Mark Welson Chua and many others before him serve as a sad reminder of what can go wrong when oversight is lacking.

Internationally, countries like Israel, South Korea, the US, and Australia showcase varied military training programs that integrate service with national education systems. These programs often mandate participation to foster a sense of duty and readiness among their youth. While diverse in structure, these programs underscore the potential benefits of a well-managed ROTC system that balances rigorous training with ethical oversight.

The current legislative push reflects a critical juncture. With the Senate poised to prioritize the ROTC bill, the legislative framework aims to mold ROTC into a training program and a transformative experience that nurtures respect, leadership, and community service.

As a reserved officer, my membership instilled a profound sense of duty that extends beyond military confines, emphasizing ROTC’s potential to cultivate leaders who are prepared to defend our nation and serve it with integrity and compassion. The program’s success hinges on its ability to evolve into a platform that truly reflects the values it seeks to instill, ensuring that tomorrow’s leaders are skilled in warfare and champions of peace, tolerance, and civic service.

While the road ahead is fraught with debates and decisions, the renewed ROTC could be a cornerstone of national development. If implemented thoughtfully, addressing both the echoes of its past and the present challenges, ROTC can help forge a disciplined, just, resilient youth cadre ready to face the complexities of the modern world.

The potential for a revitalized ROTC program to contribute significantly to national progress is immense, provided it is recalibrated to operate with transparency, accountability, and an unwavering commitment to the ethical development of its cadets. As we look to the future, it is clear that a well-conceived ROTC program could be instrumental in defending the nation and building it.

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Doc H fondly describes himself as a ‘student of and for life’ who, like many others, aspires to a life-giving and why-driven world that is grounded in social justice and the pursuit of happiness. His views herewith do not necessarily reflect those of the institutions he is employed or connected with.
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