Davao del Sur State College Conducts Benchmarking with DOrSU’s ROTC Program

The National Service Training Program (NSTP) Office of Davao del Sur State College (DSSC) recently conducted a benchmarking activity at the Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU) to gain valuable insights from its exemplary Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC). Held on March 14 at the University Board Room, the initiative aimed to further enhance DSSC’s ROTC operations by learning from DOrSU’s best practices.

The DSSC delegation was led by Prof. Gary Dave Escoton, NSTP Director, accompanied by LTC Anwar Ray O Celis (INF) PA, 1101st Community Defense Center (CDC) Director, and School Commandant; SSg Kristine D Dua (AGS) PA, ROTC Unit Chief Clerk; and several DSSC cadet officers.

Representing DOrSU were Prof. Djhoanna S. Mama, NSTP Director; Maj Rowil A Tirro (RES) PA, ROTC Assistant Commandant; Xera Ciel T Aguilar, ROTC Coordinator; SSg Junel D Ogayco (Inf) PA, ROTC Chief Clerk; Cadet Lt Col Romel T Madanlo, 1st Class, ROTC Corp Commander; and Major Mark Anthony M Villacorte (OS) PA, ROTC Commandant. DOrSU’s Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Cheryll L. Bautista, also graced the event, warmly welcoming the guests from DSSC.

The benchmarking discussions delved into essential aspects of ROTC operations, including program implementation, organizational structure, designation of functions within the cadet corps, lecture and training methodologies, the Cadet Officer Qualifying Course (COQC) selection and training process, and other internal mechanisms crucial for ensuring smooth and effective operations.

Following the benchmarking discussions, the DSSC delegates were given a tour of the DOrSU campus, providing them with a firsthand look at the facilities and training environment that contribute to the success of the University’s ROTC program.

DOrSU’s ROTC has consistently excelled, recently securing the championship title in the 2024 Regional Annual Administrative and Tactical Inspection (RAATI) and outperforming other Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in the Davao Region. Notably, DOrSU ROTC also won the RAATI Regional Championship in 2019 with an impressive 99.72% rating and ranked first runner-up in 2023. These accolades underscore the University’s dedication to superior ROTC training and leadership development.

With the success of the benchmarking activity, DSSC and DOrSU anticipate further engagements that will continue to advance ROTC training standards in the region, reinforcing their mission of producing highly competent and disciplined student cadets.