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What is ROTC?
ROTC, or Reserve Officer Training Corps, is a program that is aimed to develop the spirit of patriotism in an individual,
as well as train future officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. The program is offered primarily to college-level
institutions and two-year vocational courses. Its legal mandate is from a number of Constitutional provisions, but was subordinated
into the NSTP, or the National Service Training Program.
What is NSTP?
NSTP, or National Service Training Program, is a "program aimed at enhancing civic consciousness and defense preparedness
in the youth by developing the ethics of service and patriotism while undergoing training in any of its three (3) program
components," the ROTC, Literary Training Service (LTS), and Civic Welfare Training Service (CWTS). It was put into law by
RA 9163. You may click here for a copy of the NSTP Law.
There is an explanation on the NSTP implementation in UP Manila at the ROTC Web Portal.
What is DMST?
The Department of the Military Science and Tactics (DMST) is the University's equivalent unit for handling
ROTC. As the ROTC Unit is a Philippine Army unit, the DMST is a University unit, while both are handling ROTC program. In
effect, they are THE SAME, but the two organizations (Philippine Army and University) have different ways of organizing. Further,
the ROTC role of Philippine Army officers are of primary responsibility vis-a-vis University responsibilities.
The Philippine Army (through the regional community defense groups) designates PA officers who would be
designated commandant (and other training assistants, such as assistant commandant, chief clerk, tactical NCOs, armorer, etc.)
of an ROTC unit. The University gives support to the ROTC through the commandant's honoraria, provision of funds and headquarters.
What is the legal basis for ROTC?
The ROTC program has several legal basis, all on the framework of indoctrinating the youth of nationalism and protection
of the sovereignty of the state.
Commonwealth Act No. 1
"The defense of the state is a primary duty of the government, and in the fulfillment of this duty, a citizens may be
required by law to render personal military service."
Republic Act 7077
"An act providing for the development, administration, organization, training, maintenance and utilization of the citizen
armed force of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and other purposes.
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