April 12, 2026 — The Dr. Emilio B. Espinosa Sr. Memorial State College of Agriculture and Technology Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) unit once again demonstrated excellence as it secured an outstanding rating of 90.76% during the Regional Annual Administrative and Tactical Inspection (RAATI) 2026 held at the DEBESMSCAT Grounds, Cabitan, Mandaon, Masbate.
The latest achievement not only reflects a significant improvement from last year’s 87% rating, but also solidifies DEBESMSCAT ROTC’s standing as the number one ROTC unit in the entire province of Masbate. The increase in score highlights the unit’s continued commitment to discipline, training, and organizational efficiency.
The RAATI serves as a comprehensive evaluation of ROTC units, covering administrative management, tactical proficiency, training execution, and overall corps performance. The inspection was led by COL Ronie T. Ebarita INF (MNSA) PA, Group Commander of the 5th Regional Community Defense Group (5RCDG), together with a team of military evaluators.
In his address, COL Ebarita delivered an inspiring message to the cadets, emphasizing the vital role of the ROTC program in nation-building, leadership development, and instilling discipline among the youth. He underscored that ROTC is not only a training ground for future defenders of the country but also a platform for shaping responsible and service-oriented citizens.
Meanwhile, Dr. Arnel B. Millesca, President of DEBESMSCAT, expressed strong support for the ROTC program. In his message, he reaffirmed his commitment to prioritize ROTC under his administration and vowed to implement policies aimed at increasing student enrollment. He emphasized that the program instills discipline, responsibility, and patriotism among students—values essential to nation-building.
Also in attendance during the ceremony were Dr. Elreen A. Delavin, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Dr. Rodolfo B. Burac Jr., Vice President for Research, Extension, Innovation, Knowledge Management and Creative Works; Uranus E. Cantoria, NSTP Director; and Wilfred C. Pagorogon, ROTC Component Coordinator, who all showed their support for the activity and the ROTC program.
The inspection team included LTC Dennis A. Santos GSC (INF) PA, MAJ Oliver V. Usog (INF) PA (Representative, 5RCDG), CPT Krescelle A. Renoblas (FS) PA, CPT Aidan N. Sulapas (QMS) PA, along with several officers and enlisted personnel who conducted a thorough evaluation of the unit.
The successful inspection outcome reflects the dedication of the cadets, training staff, and leadership of the DEBESMSCAT ROTC. Their consistent performance underscores the institution’s commitment to producing competent, disciplined, and service-oriented citizen-soldiers.
With another year of excellence recorded, DEBESMSCAT ROTC continues to set the benchmark for ROTC programs in Masbate, proving that continuous improvement and commitment to excellence remain at the core of its mission.
The whole ceremony was hosted by 2LT Hazel P. Vargas FS PA (RES).
Ladies and gentlemen,
