SENATOR Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa has sponsored a bill seeking to revitalize the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps in higher educational institutions and technical vocational schools.

Senate Bill 2034, otherwise known as the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps or ROTC Act, also got the support of Senator JV Ejercito.

“No less than the Constitution recognizes the vital role of the youth in nation building. Because of such an indispensable role, the State is mandated to promote and protect our youth’s physical, moral, spiritual, intellectual and social well-being. The State shall also inculcate in the youth patriotism and nationalism, and encourage their involvement in public and civic affairs,” Dela Rosa said in his sponsorship speech.

“An important aspect of mandating ROTC for our youth is ensuring that they are fully equipped to heed the call to defend the nation when the need arises,” he added.

Ejercito said ROTC taught him to become a responsible citizen.

“There are people who said that they had bad experiences with ROTC, but I would say that this experience, which I worked hard for two years, has made me realize and value more the love for country and patriotism, taught me about discipline and respect for authority. So that’s why, Mr. President, I strongly support the revitalization of ROTC,” Ejercito said.