"Discipline is the refining fire by which talent becomes ability." ---Roy L. Smith
To a nation, discipline serves as a foundation of strength and solidarity that enables society to withstand the changes of our millennia. It is a driving force that challenges each and every one of us to defend our personal and national interests. This high regard to discipline and preparedness has led the formation of the Reserve Officers' Training Corps, or commonly known as the "ROTC".
ROTC in the Philippines was first introduced when the Philippine Constabulary heeded military instructions at the University of the Philippines in 1912. Hence, the first ROTC was established on July 3, 1922. Today, the ROTC is considered to be one of the three components of the National Service Training Program in college which aims to engage Filipino students in military training to impart self-discipline and for precautionary measures in times of national defense.
Recently, Presidente Rodrigo Duterte vocalized his support implement mandatory ROTC in Senior High School. Considering our current circumstances, this will prove to be beneficial not only for our country, but also for our youth.
The mandatory ROTC program for Senior High School students will empower them by means of discipline while developing a sense of patriotism. It was reported by the Philippine National Police (PNP) that a total number of 40,000 criminal offenses were committed by delinquents from 2012 to 2015. The alarming increase of delinquents evidently disrupts the productivity of our society. In educational institutions, learners who are "irresponsible" in terms of punctuality, obedience to rules and regulations, and active participation are less likely to contribute their skills and abilities in the community.
However, with the help of strict approaches, these delinquents can be molded to be "assets" and "role model citizens" for the future generation.
The ROTC provides a strong command of self-restraint among cadets that can be applied in real-life scenarios. Students who are subjected to this type training are thoroughly crafted to abide laws and other policies circulating within their surroundings.
Moreover, this taste of military training enhances one's lifestyle and health. It trains students to be mentally alert, while maintaining physical fitness. The ROTC also serves as a platform of socialization among individuals with similar interests and establishes teamwork within a social group. In the case of commanding officers, the training also helps pave way for leadership and confidence.
Lastly, mandatory ROTC among Senior High School students pledges our Mother Land with hopes of stability and strength. Citizens who have experience with such program are anticipated to act and use their knowledge in defending our country's rights and protecting her from both foreign and local oppressors. ROTC exposes our youth to reality, serves as an eye-opener, and caters the need to reinforce our armed forces.
Awareness, leadership, and patriotism---these are what make a "Filipino" a Filipino. A recipe for enlightenment. A fire that has been rekindled from generation to generation. How else can we obtain such beauty than by providing our youth with a framework of discipline?