24/05/2026
Governor Harris Christopher M. Ongchuan Inspires UEP-Main ROTC Class of 2026: Ready to Serve, Proud to Lead
"The youth is the hope of the fatherland. The youth who is educated and virtuous will make the country great and prosperous."
— Dr. José Rizal
University Town, Catarman, Northern Samar — May 23, 2026 — In a ceremony marked by precision, discipline, and unwavering patriotism, the University of Eastern Philippines (UEP)-Main ROTC Unit, under the 801st Community Defense Center( CDC), 8th Regional Community Defense Group (RCDG), Reserve Command (RESCOM), Philippine Army (PA), officially conferred graduation honors upon the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps Class of School Year 2025–2026 at the UEP Academic Building. This momentous occasion signified far more than the completion of academic and tactical training; it marked the formal transformation of ordinary students into dedicated defenders and servants of the Filipino people.
Hon. Harris Christopher M. Ongchuan, Governor of Northern Samar, graced the event as Guest of Honor and Speaker, standing alongside university officials, military officers, proud families, and guests to witness this significant milestone. The program featured impressive military exhibitions that showcased the cadets’ honed skills, sharp precision, and operational readiness. The highlight of the ceremony was the solemn oath-taking rites, formally incorporating the graduates into the Reserve Force of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. The induction was led by Major Neil S. Hernandez, Acting Battalion Commander of the 801st Ready Reserve Infantry Battalion (801RRIBn) and Board Member of the Northern Samar First District. The event also included the ceremonial turnover of command for the cadet corps and staff — a symbolic passing of the torch that ensures the continuity of leadership and the enduring legacy of duty for the next generation.
Dr. Cherry I. Ultra, UEP University President, officially declared the class graduates, paying tribute to their relentless hard work, perseverance, and the sacrifices made throughout their rigorous formation. In her message, she emphasized the enduring core values that define the ROTC program: discipline, patriotism, leadership, and service. She reminded the new graduates that their training was designed not merely for personal growth, but to mold them into responsible citizens and future leaders who will actively and meaningfully contribute to the ongoing task of nation-building.
In his keynote address, Governor Ongchuan delivered an inspiring message that resonated deeply with the young graduates. He challenged them to carry forward the highest ideals of courage, commitment, and integrity. He emphasized that membership in the Reserve Force is both a distinct honor and a profound responsibility — a calling that demands upholding moral standards, prioritizing public welfare, and leading by example in every sphere of life. He urged the young reservists to remain steadfast, loyal, and ever-ready to answer the call of duty whenever the nation or their community stands in need.
Under the steadfast and visionary leadership of LTC JESON G. CAPOQUIAN (INF) PA, the 801CDC, 8RCDG, RESCOM, PA, remains unwavering in its vital mission: to train, mold, and transform young students into principled, capable, and future-ready leaders who are committed to defend, serve, and uplift the Philippines.
"Duty, Honor, Country — those three hallowed words reverently dictate what you ought to be, what you can be, what you will be."
— General Douglas MacArthur
