An ecumenical youth group has voiced strong opposition to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s renewed push for the Mandatory Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC), citing concerns over deceitful claims of student enthusiasm, potential financial burdens, and the militarization of education. The administration's efforts to prioritize the ROTC Act, estimated to cost over P61 billion, amidst budget cuts for State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), have been met with significant backlash from students and educators alike. #Marcos Jr.  #Mandatory ROTC  #Philippine Public

Senator Francis Tolentino recently stated in a radio interview that the administration is keen on accelerating the implementation of Mandatory ROTC, suggesting a rise in enrollment interest. However, these assertions are contradicted by a survey conducted by the Catholic Educators Association of the Philippines, which found that a majority of respondents oppose the re-imposition of Mandatory ROTC. #Marcos Jr.  #Mandatory ROTC  #Philippine Public

The youth group further criticized the administration's proposal, noting that instead of enhancing educational facilities and increasing school budgets, the government plans to impose additional costs on institutions and students through the ROTC program. The group also emphasized that the ROTC's history of abuses makes it an unsuitable program for educational environments. #Marcos Jr.  #Mandatory ROTC  #Philippine Public

Moreover, the administration's justification for Mandatory ROTC, citing the West Philippine Sea dispute, was seen as contradictory to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'' claims of pursuing peaceful resolutions. The youth argue that such measures heighten regional tensions rather than fostering peace and diplomacy. Kabataan Party-list's executive vice president, Renee Louise Co, described the president's decision to allocate such a significant portion of the budget to a program with a troubled past as "insulting" to students and educational institutions facing financial constraints. #Marcos Jr.  #Mandatory ROTC  #Philippine Public

The youth advocates urge the government to focus on providing additional space and services for students, academic freedom, and opportunities for social engagement. They contend that genuine nationalism arises from access to quality education and civic participation, not through militaristic training. #Marcos Jr.  #Mandatory ROTC  #Philippine Public

As the debate over Mandatory ROTC continues, the youth remain steadfast in their opposition to a policy they believe misdirects valuable resources away from essential educational needs and towards a program that could exacerbate regional conflicts and undermine the welfare of the nation's youth.

#Marcos Jr.  #Mandatory ROTC  #Philippine Public