By: Keziah Nicole Fernandez
On November 20, 2025, a select delegation from the University of the Cordilleras (UC) departed Baguio City to attend the prestigious 30th Founding Anniversary of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) at the 2nd Air Reserve Command (2ndARCen) in Pampanga. Traveling alongside the team were key academic leaders—Dr. Ariel Nimo B. Pumecha (Vice President for Academics and Research), Dr. Robino D. Cawi (Dean of UC-College Criminal Justice Education), and PEMS Thomas P Eguid (Ret) (UC-ROTC Coordinator)—escorting their finest cadet officers, including C/LTC Raezel Earl W Masedman 1CL.
The purpose of this significant journey was to witness the recognition of the 243rd Department of Military Science and Tactics (DMST). Arriving at Clark Air Base the cadets demonstrated the discipline and proper conduct that had been instilled in them while preparing for the arrival of the Guest of Honor, MGEN Pablo E. Rustria Jr PAF. The formal ceremony not only celebrated institutional achievements but also highlighted future readiness with the launch of the MyADT Mobile Application, a digital tool for reservists.
Moreover, the moment of triumph arrived during the awarding ceremony when the University of the Cordilleras secured the highest distinction: ROTC Unit of the Year 2025. Individual honors followed, celebrating C/LTC Raezel Earl W Masedman 1CL as the ROTC Male Cadet of the Year and TSg Dexter R Balderas PAF as the Noncommissioned Officer of the Year. After receiving the congratulations of MGEN Rustria, the victorious group departed. Their final act of the day was a proud courtesy call on University President Dr. Nancy M. Flores to discuss the distinctions and accolades that had been conferred, affirming the strength and professionalism born from strong relations and early coordination between the university and military units.
Plaque of Recognition for ROTC Unit of the Year and ROTC Male Cadet of the Year
These achievements align strongly with UN SDG 4 (Quality Education) by focusing on the development of highly skilled cadets, whose demonstrated discipline and proper conduct were noted during the event. The ceremony, which included remarks from MGEN Pablo E Rustria PAF, Commander of the Air Force Reserve Command, reinforces UN SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) by commending the dedication of personnel and promoting strong, efficient institutional frameworks, such as the digital platform launch of the MyADT Mobile Application. Furthermore, the smooth coordination and recommendation to maintain strong relations between the university and military units underscore UN SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), ensuring that early coordination and professional behavior continue to support successful outcomes.
Report and Photos by: UC-PAF-ROTC
