By Mikee Natinga Norico

Delegates from CPU gather for a group photo together with 301st Infantry Brigade military officials during the ROTC Camp Tour 2025 held at Camp Hernandez, Dingle, Iloilo.

Central Philippine University (CPU), through its National Service Training Program (NSTP), successfully held the Educational and Recreational ROTC Camp Tour for S.Y. 2024–2025 at the 301st Infantry Brigade, 3ID, Philippine Army (PA), Camp Hernandez, Dingle, Iloilo, on July 12, 2025.

The ROTC Camp Tour 2025 aimed to enhance the leadership skills, discipline, and patriotism of ROTC cadets through immersive, military-oriented activities and exposure to real-life training environments.

Upon arrival, CPU delegates were officially welcomed by top military officials, including BGEN. Nhel Richard E. Patricio, GSC (INF) PA, Brigade Commander, 301st, 3ID, PA; LTC Ryan S. Matutina (MI) PA, Director, 604th Community Defense Center; and COL Erwin Rommel P. Lamzon (INF) MNSA PA, ADC for Admin, 3ID, PA.

CPU delegates listen attentively during the detailed orientation on firearm safety protocols and handling procedures conducted by the 301st Infantry Brigade as part of the ROTC Camp Tour 2025.

The morning session began with a unit information briefing, followed by an open forum where participants engaged with military officials through relevant questions. Attendees also witnessed a static display showcasing military equipment and K9 capabilities, followed by a window tour around the campgrounds.

In the afternoon, delegates from CPU participated in a familiarization firing activity, which was conducted after a detailed orientation on firearm safety protocols and handling procedures. The day concluded with the giving of tokens of appreciation to all key stakeholders from CPU and officials of the 301st Infantry Brigade who significantly contributed to the event’s success.

Spearheading are the CPU team composed of: Prof. Annalie D. Gilongos, NSTP Director; Mrs. Ma. Leen C. Gahum, CWTS Coordinator; MAJ Shem Catipunan (QMS) PA, ROTC Commandant; and 2LT Artemio I. Romingquit (RET) PA, ROTC Coordinator, alongside the CWTS faculty, ROTC training staff, and CPU support personnel.

The ROTC Camp Tour 2025 underscores CPU’s commitment to delivering transformative and patriotic education by providing NSTP students with first-hand insight into the values of national defense, civic responsibility, and disciplined leadership.