The Philippine Army Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) cadets from various colleges and universities joined the Philippine ROTC Games 2023 in an opening ceremony at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, Rizal Memorial Sports Complex, Malate, Manila, on October 8, 2023.
Anchored on the theme, "Tibay at Galing Pagyamanin, Suportahan Palarong ROTC Natin," the competition aims to highlight sports development, discover new talents, as well as to promote the ROTC. The competition will hold various games in basketball, volleyball, arnis, boxing, kickboxing, athletics, and e-games. Senator Francis N. Tolentino joined the opening ceremony with government agency heads, college students, and Army soldier athletes.
Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. served as the Guest of Honor and Speaker (GOHAS), who was represented by Senior Undersecretary Irineo C. Espino. In his speech, the undersecretary underscored the importance of reviving the mandatory ROTC program, which provides a venue for the individual development of the students and enables them to become active in nation-building efforts. He also assured the cadets that the DND would continue to collaborate with the Department of Education (DepEd), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and stakeholders with regard to the various programs for the students, "We will continue to dovetail our efforts to improve the program for the Filipino youth, who deserve no less than the best."
Photos by Pvt Angelica Rose M. Valderrama, OACPA