KABATAAN Party-list on Monday lauded the Sangguniang Bayan of Taytay, Rizal for passing a resolution affirming the youth’s right and freedom to choose their own way to serve the country.

“It is important to take into consideration the free will of the students to take part in the ROTC program for its successful implementation; while making nationalism and patriotism a topmost priority, we can also maximize the National Service Training Program as an alternative program for the youth in promoting nation-building,” the resolution read.

The Sangguniang Bayan issued the resolution to address issues regarding the proposed implementation of a mandatory Reserved Officers Training Corps.

The Kabataan party-list said the “landmark resolution” was the first in the country.

“We commend the SK Federation President and fellow councilors for listening sincerely to their youth constituency,” it said.

“We urge more LGUs to go beyond commissioned surveys, and conduct similar consultations to properly recognize the often marginalized and discriminated voice of our youth. Hopefully our senators will consider and stand with this resolution,” the group added.