A proposed two-year mandatory citizen service training for college students is gaining momentum, led by 1-Pacman party-list Rep. Mikee Romero. Romero, along with other military reservists, recently met with Speaker Martin Romualdez to discuss the National Citizen Service Training (NSTC) and Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) bill.
Speaker Romualdez, the principal author of the bill which is currently pending in the Senate, has pledged to prioritize its enactment. The House has already passed its version of the NSTC-ROTC bill, with the provision that college students will undergo the mandatory training while ROTC participation will be optional.
Romero, a senior administration lawmaker and a Philippine Air Force (PAF) reserve officer with the rank of lieutenant colonel, emphasized the importance of amending Republic Act 7077, also known as the Reservists’ Law, to enhance the country’s ability to mobilize citizens in times of emergencies and disasters.
The bill has received certification from President Marcos as urgent, highlighting the need for a unified and comprehensive national citizen service training and mobilization system. Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri has committed to addressing the measure before Congress adjourns for its mandatory annual break.
