Cebuano Rep wants RA9163 amended: Eddiegul to file bill boosting ROTC program

In support of the need for more reserved officers, Cebu First District Rep. Eduardo R. Gullas is set to file a bill that would abolish two components of Republic Act 9163 or the Act creating the National Service Training Program for tertiary students.

Rep. Gullas, who was the guest of honor during the Reserved Officers Training Course (ROTC) Corps Commanders National Convention at the Capitol Social Hall, said that he'd push for the retention of only one component of the program.

RA 9163 stipulates that the NSTP be divided under three programs - ROTC, literac services, and civic welfare.

Gullas, who was himself an ROTC Corps Commander during his time, believes that the literacy services and civic welfare components are redundant.

He explained that the literacy service is meant to prepare the youth to become teachers, which is already a course offered in college.

The civic welfare program on the other hand is already a main component of the ROTC most specially that the reservists and even those in the active service are now strongly encouraged to take an active role in Civic Military Operations (CMO) activities.

Gullas said that he is confident that many of his colleagues would co-author his bill, which, he said, is his way of helping the reserved officers, who are the future leaders of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Gullas also encouraged the corps commanders to be loyal to the country and if they would join the AFP in the future, they should remain loyal to their vow, to the Constitution and to the Chain of Command.

"I wish you can reflect on the events," he said in reference to some men in uniform, who have instead threatened the nation's peace and order situation instead of protect it.

"We only have one flag. We only have one country. We simply can't risk losing or breaking it up, because we don't happen to like the presidency."

Gullas also challenged the "future Generals of the AFP" to become "good leaders" and not to lose their innocence when they grow old, like what most people have become.

"Values will get you there," he reminded them. - Liv G. Campo