By Sittie Al Jannah L. Imam, NSTP Staff
The Mindanao State University Main Campus ROTC Unit once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to excellence, discipline, and service during the conduct of the Regional Annual Administrative and Tactical Inspection (RAATI) 2026, held on May 21, 2026. The highly anticipated annual inspection served as a comprehensive assessment of the unit’s administrative efficiency, military competence, and overall preparedness, bringing together cadets, officers, and training staff in a display of unity and professionalism. Guided by months of intensive preparation and training, the cadets showcased not only their technical skills but also the values of leadership, patriotism, and dedication that define the ROTC program.
The activity formally commenced with preliminary ceremonies that included arrival honors, a courtesy call on university officials, the Commandant’s Unit Briefing, and the inspection in ranks. The program proper featured an invocation led by Major Ayonan D. Dagoroan PA (Res), Tactical Officer of the MSU-MC ROTC Unit, followed by welcome remarks from Professor Abdulrasid T. Lucman, NSTP Director. A message of support was also delivered by Atty. Paisalin P.D. Tago, CPA, President of the MSU System, emphasizing the importance of programs that cultivate responsible and principled leadership among the youth, especially in a region striving for enduring peace and meaningful progress. He highlighted that the ROTC plays a vital role in shaping young leaders who recognize that true strength is reflected through service, integrity, and accountability to the community. Addressing the cadets, he reminded them that excellence is not attained overnight but is achieved through consistency, discipline, and strong character. The ceremony further included the formal turnover and assumption of command and control of the ROTC Unit between Colonel Tante D. Angagao INF (GSC) PA, Commandant of the MSU-MC ROTC Unit, and Colonel Ian Noel P. Ignes MNSA (INF) PA, Chairman of RAATI SY 2025–2026. Members of the inspecting team were later introduced by Lieutenant Colonel Rodolfo L. Lamban Jr. (INF) PA, Administrative Officer of RAATI SY 2025–2026.
From the early hours of the morning, cadets gathered on the university grounds in complete uniform, carrying with them the discipline and confidence developed through rigorous preparation. The atmosphere reflected determination and focus as each company prepared to undergo one of the most important evaluations on the ROTC calendar. The inspection was divided into two major categories: General Administration and Tactical/Field Test. Under the administrative component, the unit was assessed on records management, official communications, implementation of ROTC advocacy initiatives, compliance with directives, and overall organizational effectiveness. Through systematic coordination and efficient leadership, the MSU-Main Campus ROTC Unit earned a flawless score of 200 out of 200 points, highlighting the strength of its administrative operations and commitment to institutional standards.
The Tactical and Field Test portion of the inspection measured the cadets’ military proficiency, discipline, and practical competencies through a series of demanding activities. These included the ceremonial parade, close order drill, comprehensive examinations for basic cadets, evaluation of the commandant and training staff, field stripping of the M-16A1 rifle, map reading and land navigation, platoon unit tactics, and First Aid and Basic Life Support demonstrations. Throughout every phase of the evaluation, the cadets displayed precision, coordination, and professionalism, executing commands with synchronization and discipline. Their ability to work effectively under pressure became especially evident during the military stakes and emergency response demonstrations, where teamwork and quick decision-making were essential.
As a result of their exceptional performance, the MSU-Main Campus ROTC Unit obtained an impressive score of 794.25 out of 800 points in the Tactical/Field Test category. Combined with their perfect administrative rating, the unit achieved an outstanding overall score of 994.25 out of 1,000 points, equivalent to an exceptional 99.43% rating. This achievement reflected the countless hours of preparation, sacrifice, and dedication invested by the cadets, tactical officers, and training personnel. More than a mere inspection, RAATI 2026 became a celebration of service, resilience, and patriotism, reinforcing the vital role of the ROTC in molding disciplined citizens and future leaders committed to the welfare of the nation.
As the event concluded at noon, a strong sense of pride and fulfillment was visible among the cadets and officers of the unit. The successful conduct of RAATI 2026 not only brought honor and recognition to the Mindanao State University Main Campus ROTC Unit but also strengthened its enduring legacy of excellence within the university community and beyond. The remarkable accomplishment stands as proof of the unit’s steadfast dedication to leadership, discipline, and service to the country.
