Article By: Joy Nicole Canutab
Narrative Report and Photos By: UC-PAF-ROTC Unit
The University of the Cordilleras – Philippine Air Force ROTC Unit participated in the weekly Flag-Raising Ceremony on October 6, 2025 at the UC Main Campus. The formation was led by the Advanced Cadet Officers under the supervision of 1LT Tom Christian Lomas-e (PAFR), Assistant Commandant of the 243rd Department of Military Science and Tactics.
The ceremony opened with the official raising of the Philippine Flag, followed by the unified singing of Lupang Hinirang, the UC Hymn, and the Panunumpa ng Katapatan sa Watawat ng Pilipinas. The Corps also rendered the Philippine Air Force Hymn, a tradition that honors the ideals of national service and civic responsibility.
A Bible verse reflection concluded the activity, emphasizing the values of humility, moral grounding, and integrity in leadership. The weekly ceremony continues to instill discipline, respect for national symbols, and dedication to public service, which are fundamental attributes expected of citizen-leaders.
This ROTC-led flag ceremony does more than express patriotism — it cultivates responsible citizenship and strengthens democratic values, directly supporting United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions). SDG 16 promotes accountable institutions, ethical leadership, and active participation in nation-building — all of which are mirrored in ROTC training and culture.
Through structured civic-military education, the UC ROTC develops disciplined young individuals who uphold the rule of law, national unity, and public duty. By reinforcing respect for national identity and public order, the ceremony helps nurture future professionals who understand their role in safeguarding peace and promoting lawful and inclusive civic engagement.
This weekly tradition also contributes to SDG 4: Quality Education, as it fosters character formation, leadership skills, and transformational citizenship outside the classroom — an essential component of holistic education.
Rooted in service and guided by purpose, the Corps once again affirmed the four core values that define their mission: Faith. Patriotism. Discipline. Service.
