by Shawn Raven A. Laud
With pride and honor, the closing ceremony for the Basic and Advance ROTC Training Program and the Cadet Officer Candidate Course for School Year 2024–2025 was held on May 15 at EKB Auditorium, ASC–Luna Campus.
For his part, Mr. Edgar Valdez, NSTP-ROTC Coordinator, commended 123 cadets for their dedication. “As you step out, equipped with the skills and character honed through your ROTC experience, remember the lessons learned on the parade grounds and in the classrooms,” he stated.
The event formally recognized the seven (7) 1st Class Advance ROTC Cadets, 100 Basic ROTC Cadets who completed their training, and sixteen (16) Basic ROTC Cadets who successfully finished the Cadet Officer Candidate Course totaling to 123.
Master Sergeant Nolie P. Suyu INF (Infantry) of Philippine Army, Senior Tactical Non-Commissioned Officer, presented the graduates with the official declaration delivered by Col. Randy L. Pagunuran, INF GSC (General Staff Course) of the PA, Commandant of the ASC-ROTC Unit.
One of the ceremony’s highlights was the turnover of newly enlisted Privates to the 1406th (Apayao) Ready Reserve Infantry Battalion (RRIBn), led by Col. Pagunuran. The acceptance and oath-taking of the new Privates was officiated by Lt. Col. Hoyt Joy S. Lacuesta, Masters in National Security Administration (Reservist) PA, Battalion Commander RRIBn.
Serving as the resource speaker was Major Rogelio M. Agustin Jr. (INF) PA, Executive Officer of the 98th Infantry Battalion, 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, representing Lt. Col. Melchor L. Balasi INF (GSC) PA, Commanding Officer. In his address, Maj. Agustin emphasized leadership grounded in resilience, character, and service.
“As you move forward—whether continuing your ROTC journey or pursuing other paths—carry with you the values instilled in you: honor in how you carry yourselves, patriotism in your loyalty to the nation, and responsibility in how you represent your unit, community, and family,” he added.
Col. Pagunuran, also speaking on behalf of Col. Arnel B. Cabugon INF (GSC) PA, extended his congratulations to the graduates.
