Duterte backs passage of mandatory ROTC — PalaceBy The Manila TimesPRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte is supporting the passage of a bill requiring a mandatory Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program for grades 11 and 12 students in public and private schools nationwide, Malacañang said on Tuesday. The President wants that (bill on mandatory ROTC) passed,” Panelo told reporters during a press conference. Duterte has repeatedly called for mandatory ROTC training, saying the program will help prepare young Filipinos defend the Philippines during wartime. The ROTC, mandatory military training in college, was made optional in 2002 following the controversy that resulted in the death of Mark Chua, a University of Sto. ROTC is now one of the three components of the NSTP, along with Civic Welfare Training Service and Literacy Training Service.

Source: Manila Times May 21, 2019 05:48 UTC