By Lane Afable, News Editor
The UPLB Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) Unit once again marched into the field for the 2026 Regional Annual Administrative and Tactical Inspection (RAATI), showcasing the discipline, skills, and readiness honed through a year of rigorous training.
RAATI is an annual evaluation conducted by the Reserve Command of the Philippine Army to assess the performance and readiness of ROTC units from various colleges and universities across the region. More than a measure of competence, RAATI instills in cadets the value of “esprit de corps,” emphasizing unity, cooperation, and shared responsibility in accomplishing any given task.
The program formally commenced on April 25, 2026, at the UPLB Freedom Park Upper Grounds.
The arrival honors were rendered by the UPLB ROTC Unit to the RAATI Team, which was led by RAATI Chairman Col. Virgilio C. Hamos, Jr. GSC (INF) PA, assistant division commander for Retiree and Reservist Affairs.
1st Lt. Edwin B. Rala PA (RES), assistant commandant of the UPLB ROTC Unit, delivered the welcoming remarks, setting the tone for a meaningful exchange grounded in service and commitment.
He extended his congratulations to the cadets, noting that the activity was a testament to their hard work and dedication.
Subsequently, Col. Alexander M. Arbolado (INF) MNSA PA, commandant and head of the UPLB Department of Military Science and Tactics, formally turned over the unit flag to Hamos, symbolizing the latter’s assumption of command for the inspection of the unit.
Dr. Charina Gracia B. Banaay, director of the UPLB National Service Training Program Office, also graced the event and addressed the participants, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking in shaping competent and responsible cadets.
As a culmination of their full year of training, the UPLB cadets underwent a comprehensive evaluation covering the ceremonial parade and fundamental military stakes, including company drills, rank inspection, first aid/basic life support, weapons handling, map reading, knot tying, small unit tactics, and a comprehensive examination.
The UPLB ROTC unit emerged with an overall rating of 91.96%, as announced by RAATI Vice Chairman Col. Neil Armstrong Batayola GSC (INF) PA, assistant chief of staff for Education and Training. This year’s score marks an improvement from last year’s rating of 89.73%, underscoring the Unit’s sustained commitment to continuous growth and its enduring pursuit of honor, excellence, and service.
