Sen. Robin Padilla has renewed his call for the passage of the proposed ROTC Act following the recent earthquake in Mindanao, saying the disaster highlighted the importance of having trained citizens who can assist during emergencies.
Padilla said the earthquake showed that love for country is not only demonstrated through defending national sovereignty but also through helping fellow Filipinos during times of disaster and need.
According to the senator, natural disasters and similar emergencies are unavoidable in the Philippines. He said these situations underscore the need for citizens who are disciplined, organized and properly trained to participate in evacuation efforts, provide first aid and assist in search-and-rescue operations.
In light of these concerns, Padilla reiterated his support for Senate Bill No. 617, also known as the ROTC Act.
The proposed measure seeks to strengthen the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps program in Higher Education Institutions and Technical-Vocational Institutions nationwide.
Padilla said the training envisioned under the measure would help prepare Filipinos to respond more effectively during emergencies and disasters.
Among the skills included in the proposed program are survival training, disaster response operations, search-and-rescue missions and relief operations.
The senator’s renewed appeal comes in the aftermath of the Mindanao earthquake, which affected communities in several areas and prompted ongoing disaster response efforts by government agencies and local authorities.
Padilla maintained that equipping citizens with practical emergency response skills would help improve the country’s preparedness for future disasters.
The ROTC Act remains pending in the Senate, but the lawmaker said recent events demonstrate the value of developing a pool of trained individuals who can support authorities and assist communities during times of crisis.
The proposal aims to expand training opportunities for students while promoting readiness for emergency situations and disaster-related operations across the country.
