National Service Training Program (NSTP) Overview

Introduction to NSTP

• The National Service Training Program (NSTP) was established to promote national defense and civic responsibility among Filipino citizens.

Historical Background

• Commonwealth Act No. 1 (National Defense Act): Developed in 1935 under President Manuel L. Quezon.

  • Mandated military training for male college students (2 years / 4 semesters).

• Presidential Decree No. 1706 (1980): Amended the National Defense Act.

  • Established three components:
    • Civic Welfare Service (CWS)
    • Law Enforcement Service (LES)
    • Military Service
  • College students could choose one component.

• Suspension of Military Service: Under President Corazon C. Aquino, military service provisions were suspended.

  • ROTC became the basic training course (effective School Year 1986-1987).

• Republic Act 7077 (1991): Modified ROTC to include expanded training options in military and civic components.

Major Incidents and Reforms

• Mark Wilson Chihuahua Incident (2001): The murder of a student sparked protests against ROTC abuses and illegal practices.
• Resulted in reforms and public outcry against hazing and excessive punishments in military training programs.

Republic Act 9163 (NSTP Act of 2001)

• Signed into law on January 23, 2002.
  • Implemented during School Year 2002-2003.
  • Amended previous acts for improved national service programs.

Components of NSTP

1. Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC):

   • Military training for preparedness.
   • Graduates become reserve military personnel.

2. Literacy Training Service (LTS):

   • Trains students to teach literacy and numeracy.
   • Focuses on out-of-school youth and underserved populations.

3. Civic Welfare Training Service (CWTS):

   • Aims to improve community welfare and public health.
   • Engages students in community service activities.

Students' Choices

• Incoming freshmen can choose among the three NSTP components.
• ROTC is optional but highly recommended for those interested in military service.

Constitutional Basis of NSTP

• 1987 Philippine Constitution:
  • Section 4: Government's duty to serve and protect citizens; citizens may be required to render service.
  • Section 5: Maintenance of peace, order, and general welfare is a shared responsibility.
  • Section 13: State recognizes the youth's role in nation-building and encourages their involvement.

Conclusion

• NSTP promotes civic consciousness and national defense among Filipino youth.
• Encourages participation in community service, nationalism, and personal development.
• The importance of education and awareness in civic duties is emphasized.