26/04/2026
SORSOGON STATE UNIVERSITY β CASTILLA CAMPUS ROTC UNIT REACHES SIGNIFICANT MILESTONE WITH SUCCESSFUL CONCLUSION OF ITS THIRTEENTH MANDATORY TRAINING FOR A.Y. 2025β2026
APRIL 25, 2026 β The Reserve Officersβ Training Corps Unit (ROTCU) of Sorsogon State University β Castilla Campus has successfully completed its Thirteenth Mandatory Training for the Second Semester of Academic Year 2025β2026, marking another remarkable achievement in its continuous pursuit of excellence, discipline, and proficiency in military training and education.
Centered on critical and essential military competencies, this training focused on two key subject areas: βSquad Fundamentals and Movement Techniquesβ and βHand Grenades,β designed to equip cadets with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for effective field operations and tactical readiness.
In preparation for the activity, the Advance Party conducted thorough and systematic pre-training preparations to ensure the smooth and successful implementation of the program. Every aspect was carefully inspected and validatedβfrom the proper wearing and standardization of uniforms in strict adherence to Philippine Army regulations, to the functionality of communication devices, serviceable field gear, and complete instructional materials. Training venues including the Main Basketball Court, Grass Field, Farmers Training Center (FTC) Hall, and the Department of Military Science and Tactics (DMST) Office were also arranged and readied to provide a safe, organized, and conducive environment for learning and instruction.
The formal program began promptly at 0700H with the conduct of a precise roll call and headcount administered by the Administrative Staff. Beyond confirming full attendance, this procedure served as a vital reinforcement of the core values of discipline, accountability, and responsibilityβprinciples that form the foundation of every cadetβs development.
Following the opening procedures, the entire corps assembled at the Grass Field for the PasaβMasid and Basic Military Drills session, which was expertly facilitated by C/COL ALDREN S MATABUENA 1CL, Unit Corps Commander. Under his leadership, cadets demonstrated coordination, precision, and improved mastery of basic formations and movements.
At 0900H, all participants proceeded to the FTC Hall for the core training proper. The session commenced with an intensive lecture and practical demonstration on βSquad Fundamentals and Movement Techniques,β comprehensively discussed and demonstrated by CPL OLIVER P LACEDA (INF) PA. The discussion covered essential concepts such as squad composition, tactical formations, and proper ex*****on of movements in various operational scenarios, giving cadets a clear understanding of how to operate effectively as a unified team.
This was immediately followed by the discussion and demonstration on βHand Grenades,β which was competently led by SGT EDGAR H ALEBARBAR (RES) PA. The session covered classification, handling procedures, safety precautions, and proper employment techniques, emphasizing safety and responsible use alongside technical proficiency.
All scheduled training activities were successfully concluded at 1200H, with the cadets exhibiting improved competence, heightened awareness, and a deeper appreciation for the importance of proper training and preparedness.
The success of this undertaking was made possible through the dedicated supervision, guidance, and expertise of the following personnel:
- CPL OLIVER P LACEDA (INF) PA, Administrative / Tactical NonβCommissioned Officer
- Graduate Military Assistants (GMAs)
- Advance ROTC Officers
