Demonstrating excellence in military training, discipline, and operational readiness, the Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST) Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) Unit garnered an overall rating of 96.38% during the Regional Annual Administrative and Tactical Inspection (RAATI) 2026 conducted on May 11, 2026, at the University Grandstand, NEUST Sumacab Campus.
The inspection evaluated the tactical knowledge, administrative efficiency, and preparedness of around 290 cadet officers and 40 advanced ROTC officers through a series of assessments and field demonstrations.
Representing COL George Bergonia, INF (MNSA), PA, LTC Kenneth Buenaventura, PA, Chairman of the Inspection Team, discussed the objectives and significance of the annual inspection.
“RAATI is more than an inspection; it celebrates ROTC’s core mission—military education that prepares students for national defense, offers a glimpse of military life, and inspires service,” he said, urging cadets not only to love the flag but also to defend it in the continuing fight for freedom.
A formal turnover of the ROTC Corps of Cadets was conducted by COL Isaurio Palmaria, PA (RES), ROTC Commandant, to the Chairman of the Inspection Team, LTC Buenaventura.
In her message, Dr. Feliciana Jacoba, Vice President for Academic Affairs, commended the cadets for their commitment to leadership and discipline fostered through the ROTC program.
“I believe that you are ready to practice leadership in the community, knowing that in ROTC, you are trained to practice command, supervision, and coordination. You are properly trained to become responsible, disciplined, and accountable citizens in whatever endeavor you have chosen,” she stated.
Dr. Jacoba further emphasized the value of the annual inspection in strengthening professionalism among students.
“Other than promoting the value of discipline and professionalism, we appreciate the other purposes of conducting the annual tactical inspection of the ROTC in higher educational institutions,” she added.
The RAATI evaluation covered both general administration and field tests, including ceremonial parade, close order drill, weapons familiarization, raid and ambush simulation, first aid, and comprehensive examination, among others.
Initiated and implemented by the 3rd Regional Community Defense Group (3RCDG), Philippine Army Reserve Command, the annual inspection aims to assess the operational readiness, administrative performance, and tactical capability of ROTC units across the region.
Closing the event, LTC Ma. Salvacion Collado, PA (RES), NEUST NSTP Coordinator, lauded the cadets for their discipline and dedication throughout the inspection.
“You have shown deep respect for protocol and pride in our unit. Remember that the lessons learned today extend beyond this parade ground—they prepare you for leadership and service in the larger community,” she said.
Present during the activity were MAJ Roberto Reyes, PA (RES); 1LT John Lloyd Lopez, Tactical Unit Inspector; Tech. Sgt. Edgardo Neprija; Sgt. Jovit Garbo and Cpl. Lester Campos, who served as an evaluator.
Also in attendance were LTC Gerrybell Porio (INF), PA, and colleagues from the 71D and 3RCDG, along with Dr. Arjay Ortiz, Director of the NEUST National Service Training Program; Ms. Cristina Virginia Jimmy, Jr., Dean of the NEUST College of Criminology; faculty members, staff, and students of the University.
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