By Cyrus A. Natividad
CPU delegation led by Commandant Col Peter C. Bedoña(Ret) pose for remembrance in front of Camp General Macario Peralta, Jr. in Jamindan, Capiz.
On July 22, 2023 Central Philippine University Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC SY2022-2023) with about sixty members of the CPU faculty and staff visited the Army’s 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division for a one-day educational camp tour. The camp tour aims to share knowledge about the Philippine Army’s thrusts and capabilities through various activities and orientations designed for them.
In his message, Dr. Irving Domingo Rio, CPU VP for Academic Affairs, thanked the leadership of the camp for the generous accommodation and said that “There is much to learn from the military, especially in discipline and getting things done because learning is a never-ending process.”
Brigadier General Leonardo Peña, Assistant Division Commander of 3ID, on the other hand said that “The CPU ROTC Unit camp tour would nurture benevolence and harmonious rapport with the public sector, specifically, the military.” He highlighted the contribution of the academe in maintaining peace and development and the importance of the youth in nation-building.
“You have the role to perform, and we have to see the purpose of our existence. We would be of service to the Filipino community. The specific sector we need to give importance to is the youth, for they are the ones who will replace us and the country’s future,” BGen Peña said.
There was a short program hosted by the 3rd ID. LTC Danny D. Bustamante INF (GSC) PA 604th CDC, RESCOM, PA gave an overview of the camp tour activities. COL Pedro C. Bedona PA (Ret) Commandant, CPU ROTC Unit, introduced the guests.
The delegation was given a Camp Orientation by CPT John Alexi E Serino (MI) PA, Operation Officer Officer, 3IMBN. A boodle fight followed with fresh farm produce and ‘Sinugba’ (grilled bangus). More training exhibitions were shown to the CPU group by the Spearhead Troopers.
The CPU delegation left the camp towards home by 5 PM.