In a ceremony marked by pride and patriotism, Dr. Elbert M. Galas, the 7th President of Pangasinan State University (PSU), inspired 696 newly enlisted reservists at the Joint Graduation Ceremony of the Basic and Advance Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) of PSU-Urdaneta, Sta. Maria and Asingan Campuses held at the Senator Leticia Ramos Shahani Convention Hall (SLRSCH) at PSU-Sta. Maria Campus on June 23, 2024.
The event began with a warm welcome from Dr. Honorio L. Cascolan, the Campus Executive Director of PSU-Sta. Maria Campus. In his opening remarks, he acknowledged the hard work and dedication of the graduates, stating, “We celebrate your dedication and commitment to public service.”
Following this, LTC Rey David A. Taqueban INF (GSC) PA, the Director of the 105th Community Defense Center (CDC), 1st Regional Community Defense Group (RCDG), Reserve Command, Philippine Army (RCPA), presented the candidates for graduation.
The official declaration of graduates was made by Col Leopoldo T. Babante MI (GSC) PA, Group Commander of the 1RCDG, RCPA. Col Babante also administered the Reservists’ Oath and oversaw the turnover of the newly enlisted reservists. The acceptance of these new reservists was conducted by LTC Romae R. De Asis GSC PA (RES), the Battalion Commander of the 105th Ready Reserve Infantry Battalion (RRIBn).
In his keynote speech, Dr. Galas emphasized the critical role that ROTC cadets play in nation-building. He praised the graduates for their dedication and the rigorous training they have undergone, which has instilled in them a strong sense of discipline, leadership, patriotism, and nationalism.
“The role of ROTC cadets in nation-building cannot be neglected. The rigorous training they have been through to develop their discipline, leadership skills, sense of patriotism, and spirit of nationalism are all geared towards not only the betterment of their careers, but more importantly of the Philippines, and our fellow Filipinos,” Dr. Galas stated.
He concluded his address with a stirring call to action, encouraging the graduates to continue serving the nation and to cherish and love the Philippines even more during challenging times.
“Sa inyong pagtatapos, patuloy at paigtingin pa ninyo ang paglilingkod ninyo sa bayan at mahalin pa ng higit ang bansang Pilipinas lalo na sa mga panahong sinusubok tayo ng mga hamon na nag-uudyok sa atin upang ipakita kung sino tayo bilang mga Pilipino,” he remarked.
The ceremony was a significant milestone for the graduates, signifying not only the culmination of their training but also the beginning of their journey as newly enlisted reservists, ready to serve and protect the nation.
The event highlighted the strong support and commitment of PSU and the ROTC program in fostering a new generation of disciplined and patriotic citizens.
