The Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) Class Mandigan 2025–2026 of Rizal Technological University (RTU) underwent and passed the Regional Annual Administrative and Tactical Inspection (RAATI), an annual assessment of the ROTC program of universities in the Philippines, on May 3, 2026. The RAATI served as a powerful reminder of the discipline, preparation, and unwavering commitment defining the ROTC cadets of RTU.

The ceremony kicked off with the arrival of the RAATI team and participants, greeted by traditional military honors and crisp ceremonial commands that set a solemn, proud tone. To officially open the ceremony, Dr. Elmer C. Pascual, Director of the National Service Training Program Office (NSTPO), delivered a warm welcome address, underscoring the university’s strong support for the program and the cadets’ vital role in fostering future leaders and ensuring the country’s peace and security.

The program drew participation from over 439 ROTC cadets, accompanied by school administrators and NSTP staff, creating a vibrant display of unity. The rigorous inspection unfolded across key program areas, assessing the university’s ROTC program in Recapitalization and Military Stakes. The Recapitalization area included Arrival Honor, Ceremonial Parade, Inspection in Rank, and Close Order Drill, while the Military Stakes area was focused on Map Reading, M16 rifle / Cal .45 Pistol, Immediate Action Drill, and First Aid/Basic Life Support.

Serving as the Chairperson of the National Capital Region Regional Community Defense Group (NCRRDG) RAATI Team was Col. Gerald L. Monfort, Deputy Commander of the Philippine Army’s Civil-Military Operations Regiment. In his keynote address, Col. Monfort first thanked the cadets for choosing ROTC—a path of early mornings, rigorous training, and unwavering conduct amid a time of peace when “comfort seems easier and more attractive”. He commended their commitment as a personal investment, urging them to embody ROTC’s discipline and values in their families, workplaces, and communities by serving as protectors of the people through clear thinking, responsible action, and leadership. This choice, he emphasized, connects them directly to the nation’s defense tradition, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and to the mission of building a strong, reliable reserve force.

Col. Monfort was accompanied by  Maj. Iosif Gino C. Jubas, the RAATI Team’s Vice-Chairperson and Inspector for General Administration; TSG Richard S. Casero, NCRRCDG Secretariat; Maj. Francis M. Lobaton, NCRRCDG Lead Planner, and the inspectors for each key area, including MSg. Antonio M. Hernandez for Weapons, Cpl. Amy L. Yunus and Sgt. Jayson S. Galima for Basic Life Support, SSg. Noel Glenn B. Alojipan for Map Reading, Maj. Mel P. Meneses for Field Test and Comprehensive Examination, Sgt. Aldo Rey M. Dagdag for Arrival Honor, Company Drill, Rank Inspection, and Immediate Action Drill.

Concluding the inspection and assessments, Maj. Jubas announced the RAATI results: the unit earned a total score of 863.09, with an overall rating of 86.31%, showcasing the dedication, discipline, and preparedness of the cadets and officers. RTU ROTC excelled in several categories, particularly the Ceremonial Parade, where the unit achieved a perfect score of 100 points; General Administration, with 199.0 points; and First Aid/Basic Life Support, with 94.40 points.

The results reflect the hard work and commitment of the RTU ROTC Unit in maintaining excellence in military training, leadership, and service. The achievement also highlights the university’s continued support and the cadets’ determination to uphold the values of discipline, teamwork, and patriotism.

In a highlight of the event, University President Dr. Eugenia M. Yangco shared an inspiring message through Dr. Pascual, reminding cadets that true leadership transcends rank—it’s forged through purposeful actions, sound decisions, and responsible guidance. The president encouraged them to view the RAATI as an opportunity for growth and to rise to even higher standards. The university expressed great pride in each cadet, urging them to uphold honor, serve with dedication, and pursue excellence in every endeavor.

The ceremony culminated in the symbolic turnover of the unit color by Col. Monfort to the ROTC unit commander, marking the official recognition of their achievements. 

This RAATI not only validated the cadets’ hard work but also reinforced RTU’s commitment to holistic leadership development.