03/10/2026
The Technological University of the Philippines Reserve Officers Training Corps Unit (TUP ROTCU) successfully conducted its Joint Opening Ceremony, Turn-Over of Command, and Donning and Pinning of Ranks on 20 September 2026 at 0700H at the TUP Parade Ground, Ayala Boulevard, Ermita, Manila. The ceremony marked the formal opening of Military Science 1 (MS-1), the recognition of newly designated Cadet Officers, and the transition of leadership within the TUP ROTCU.
The ceremony commenced with an invocation delivered by the Lady Sponsor's served as the Masters of Ceremony, efficiently facilitating the program and ensuring the orderly and seamless progression of each activity.
The ceremony commenced with an invocation delivered by Ms. Ma. Angela P. Tamba, followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem, setting a solemn and patriotic tone for the occasion. This was followed by the opening remarks of the NSTP Director, Prof. Reggie C. Campomanes, who emphasized the importance of discipline, unity, responsibility, and service in the development of ROTC cadets and future leaders.
The presentation of cadets for the opening of Military Science 1 was subsequently led by Mr. Jonathan L. Navarro, ROTC Coordinator. Following the presentation, LTC OMAR H HASSAN (ART) PA, TUP ROTCU Commandant, formally declared the opening of MS-1, signifying the official commencement of military training and instruction for the new academic year.
The ceremony proceeded with the Donning and Pinning of Ranks, one of the significant traditions in the ROTC program. The newly designated Cadet Officers were formally recognized and honored in the presence of their families, the Training Staff, and fellow ROTC student cadets. The ceremony symbolized their assumption of greater responsibility and accountability, as well as the trust placed in them as student leaders of the Corps.
Afterwards, Sgt Carlo L Duka (AGS) PA read the Designation Order, formally recognizing the appointments and responsibilities of the newly designated Cadet Officers within the Corps.
The transition of leadership was then highlighted through the Turn-Over of Command Ceremony. C/COL ALBERT T DOMINGO 1CL solemnly read his Relinquishment Order, formally signifying the conclusion of his tenure as Corps Commander. This was followed by C/COL ZHARIE ANN R VALERO 1CL, who read her Assumption Order, formally signifying her assumption of command and responsibility over the TUP ROTCU. The ceremony represented the continuity of leadership, responsibility, and service within the Corps.
The program continued with the Oath of Undertaking, administered by LTC OMAR H HASSAN (ART) PA, TUP ROTCU Commandant, to the Training Staff. Through the oath, the Training Staff affirmed their commitment to uphold discipline, loyalty, integrity, and dedication in the performance of their duties and responsibilities in support of the ROTC program.
An inspiring message of GOHAS was subsequently delivered by LTC XAVIER C CELESTIAL QMS (GSC) PA (RES). His message emphasized the values of patriotism, integrity, discipline, perseverance, and dedication to the nation. He also shared his personal journey from being a cadet to becoming an Army officer, providing the cadets with a firsthand account of the importance of discipline, commitment, and perseverance in pursuing a life of service.
The morning program concluded with the presentation of a Certificate of Appreciation to the GOHAS speaker by LTC OMAR H HASSAN (ART) PA, TUP ROTCU Commandant. The recognition expressed appreciation for his valuable contribution, guidance, and inspiring message to the cadets, particularly in reinforcing the principles of patriotism, discipline, leadership, and service.
At 1400H, the activities continued at the TUP ROTC Headquarters with a lecture on Republic Act No. 11053, otherwise known as the Anti-Hazing Act of 2018, conducted by NSTP Director Prof. Reggie C. Campomanes. The lecture emphasized the importance of understanding and complying with the provisions of the law, particularly in maintaining a safe, disciplined, and respectful environment within military training and student organizations.
The lecture was further enriched by the insights of COL ARTURO S BALGOS JR., AFP, former TUP ROTC Corps Commander and a member of the Class of 1997. He shared valuable perspectives on leadership, discipline, responsibility, and responsible service, drawing from his experience and background in the ROTC program and military service.
The successful conduct of the event was made possible through the guidance and leadership of LTC OMAR H HASSAN (ART) PA, TUP ROTCU Commandant, with the support of the Training Staff and Cadet Officers of the TUP ROTC Unit. Their professionalism, cooperation, and dedication contributed to the orderly and meaningful ex*****on of the activities, further strengthening the spirit of unity and service within the Corps
