By Karren Jay G. Asgar

(From left to right): MAJ Shem Catipunan (QMS) PA, ROTC Commandant; 2LT Artemio I. Romingquit (RET) PA, ROTC Coordinator; Prof. Annalie D. Gilongos, NSTP Director; COL Erwin Rommel P. Lamzon (INF) MNSA PA, Resource Speaker; and Mrs. Ma. Leen C. Gahum, CWTS Coordinator, during the presentation of the certificate of appreciation and a token of gratitude.

On August 2, 2025, the Central Philippine University – National Service Training Program (CPU-NSTP) held a plenary session focused on “National Security: Diplomacy, Intelligence, Defense” at the Rose Memorial Auditorium. The event brought together students from both the Civic Welfare Training Service (CWTS) and Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) programs of the NSTP.

The program commenced with a devotional and community singing led by Mrs. Emcy J. Sanchez, followed by an opening prayer delivered by Ms. Chilou P. Batoon. Prof. Annalie D. Gilongos, CPU-NSTP Coordinator, welcomed the students through her opening remarks, she encouraged students to see themselves as future leaders with a vital role in sustaining peace and national stability. Prof. Gilongos also introduced the NSTP Coordinators and the ROTC Commandant, acknowledging the collective leadership responsible for guiding the students throughout the semester.

Afterward, Mrs. Ma. Leen C. Gahum introduced the CWTS faculty members, while 2LT Artemio I. Romingquit presented the ROTC Training Staff. A video presentation on the NSTP Law was also shown, giving students a foundational understanding of the program’s legal mandate and core objectives.

The highlight of the event was the plenary lecture on national security delivered by Colonel Erwin Rommel P. Lamzon (INF) MNSA PA, Assistant Division Commander for Administration of the 3rd Infantry Division, Philippine Army. Prof. Gilongos introduced the speaker, who proceeded to deliver an in-depth discussion on the pillars of national security.

Colonel Lamzon presented a comprehensive discussion centered on the three pillars of national security namely diplomacy, intelligence, and defense. He urged the attendees to develop critical thinking skills, remain vigilant, and stay informed about national and global issues. He emphasized that every Filipino, especially the youth, has a role to play in promoting peace, unity, and resilience.

An open forum followed the lecture, giving students the opportunity to engage with the topic by asking questions and sharing insights to the resource speaker.

CPU-NSTP Coordinator Prof. Annalie D. Gilongos, RN, MN, along with CPU NSTP-CWTS Coordinator Ma. Leen C. Gahum, RL, led the presentation of a certificate and token of appreciation to Colonel Erwin Rommel P. Lamzon (INF) MNSA PA, for his valuable contribution in making the plenary session a success. Afterward, Mrs. Ronaliza M. Cenal made some important announcements and led the closing prayer.

The CPU-NSTP remains at the forefront of organizing initiatives like this, playing a key role in developing responsible citizens and making further efforts to create a safer and more resilient society.