Duterte highlights importance of ROTC in national security

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte led Friday the closing ceremony of the National ROTC Summit and the First Presidential Silent Drill Competition underscoring the importance of the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) to the nation’s peace and security.

Speaking before the participants of the event, President Duterte said that during times of conflict the country’s reservists could augment troops deployed in the frontline.

“In a total outbreak, itong mga ‘to, nandoon sa frontline at hindi mo malaman kung maubos ito sa isang bomba lang o isang machine gun. We have to have a reserve force which can be mobilized anytime,” the President said during the event held at the Qurino Grandstand.

“Kailangan tayo na kumuha ng ROTC, undergo the training kasi alam mo, pagdating ng panahon, alam mo magkasa ng Armalite, alam mo mag-dismantle kung masira, at alam mong bumaril,” he further said.

ROTC training also instills discipline on the youth, he said, adding those who underwent ROTC respect authorities.

Inspired by the drills he saw in China, President Duterte has instructed the military to conduct more silent drills during sundown to honor Dr. Jose Rizal, the country’s national hero.

“Do it and I order it every day. It will be spearheaded by the Armed Forces of the Philippines and those who’d like to participate,” the President said.

Different Chinese units, he noted, perform such drills before their flag is lowered every afternoon attracting large audience.

Spearheaded by the Presidential Management Staff (PMS), the Presidential Security Group (PSG) and their partners, the event was held as the Armed Forces of the Philippines concluded the National ROTC Summit that showcased the gallantry, bravery and spirit of volunteerism of young men and women all over the country.

President Duterte then commended the winners and participants of the competition as well as all those who joined the summit. The participants received cash prizes from event organizers.

Source: Presidential Communications Operations Office https://pcoo.gov.ph/news_releases/president-duterte-highlights-importance-of-rotc-in-national-security/