On April 8, 2024, a significant ceremony took place at the Lyceum of the Philippines University-Batangas (LPU-B) SHL Board Room. A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed between LPU-B and the 401st Batangas Community Defense Center (401st CDC), solidifying their commitment to collaboration and strengthening the presence of the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program within the university.
The event commenced with introductions of the attendees, featuring prominent figures from both institutions. LPU-B representatives included Dr. Sergel I. Dacut (Supervisor, Linkages and International Affairs), Mr. Frederick C. Badillo (Senior Vice President and Vice President for Finance), Dr. Cecilia D. Pring (VP for Academics and Research/Dean College of Nursing), Dr. Maribeth G. Buenviaje (Executive Director, Strategic Communications, Linkages and International Affairs), Dr. Merwina Lou A. Bautista (Dean, College of Criminal Justice Education), and Mrs. Rowena E. Mojares (Department Chair, CCJE). Representing the Philippine Army were MAJ LORENZO B SIOBAL JR (INF) PA (Director, 401st (BTS) CDC and Commandant, LPU-B ROTC Unit), MAJ ROMEL B BASILAN PA (RES) (CMO Officer, 401st Ready Reserve Infantry Battalion (401st RRIBn) and Assistant Commandant, LPU-B ROTC Unit), MSg Arcan O Latayan QMS PA (Res) (Sgt Major, 401st RRIBn and Senior Tactical NCO, LPU-B ROTC Unit), and MSg May D Albert F Atilano (Chief Clerk, 401st (BTS) CDC).
Following introductions, a presentation showcasing LPU-Batangas was delivered. Dr. Cecilia D. Pring then provided opening remarks and a brief background of the agreement, emphasizing its importance. Mr. Frederick C. Badillo, Senior Vice President and Vice President for Finance, expressed his gratitude for the renewed partnership and his hope for a positive ROTC program experience for students. He emphasized the importance of fostering good attitudes, discipline, and a sense of patriotism within the student body.
The highlight of the ceremony was the signing of the MOA by representatives from both parties, followed by the acceptance speech delivered by MAJ LORENZO B SIOBAL JR (INF) PA. He expressed his appreciation to LPU-B President Dr. Peter P. Laurel, staff, faculty, and students for embracing the Army ROTC program within the university. Dr. Merwina Lou A. Bautista, Dean of the College of Criminal Justice Education, delivered the closing remarks, expressing her hope for a successful and fruitful partnership between LPU-B and the Philippine Army.
The ceremony concluded with the appointment of Mrs. Rowena E. Mojares, Department Chair, as the official ROTC Coordinator for LPU-B. This MOA signing signifies a renewed commitment between LPU-B and the Philippine Army to provide a valuable ROTC program for students. For the university, this strengthened partnership offers several benefits:
- Enhanced Curriculum: The collaboration with the Philippine Army allows LPU-B to enrich its ROTC curriculum with the latest military knowledge and training methods, ensuring students receive a well-rounded and relevant educational experience.
- Leadership Development: The ROTC program is known for fostering leadership skills, discipline, and a sense of responsibility. This partnership strengthens these aspects within the program, preparing LPU-B graduates to be future leaders in their chosen fields.
- Patriotism and Service: The ROTC program instills a sense of patriotism and civic duty in students. This renewed partnership reinforces these values, encouraging LPU-B graduates to contribute positively to their communities and the nation.
- Broadened Career Opportunities: The ROTC program opens doors to potential careers in the military for interested students. This partnership can provide them with valuable connections and insights into military service.
By strengthening its ROTC program through this MOA, LPU-B demonstrates its commitment to providing a holistic education that equips students with valuable skills, fosters a sense of service, and prepares them to be successful future citizens.
