Overview of the National Service Training Program

Aug 22, 2024

Notes on the National Service Training Program (NSTP)

Introduction

  • Discussing the history of the National Service Training Program (NSTP).

Background

  • Commonwealth Act No. 1 (National Defense Act)
    • Passed in 1935 under President Manuel L. Quezon.
    • Mandated military training for male college students (2 years or 4 semesters).
    • Aimed at national defense of the Philippines.

Amendments and Developments

  • Presidential Decree No. 1706 (August 8, 1980)
    • Expanded the national service to include three components:
      • Civic Welfare Service (CWS)
      • Law Enforcement Service (LES)
      • Military Service
    • College students could choose one component to fulfill education requirements.
  • Presidential Memorandum Order No. 1
    • During President Corazon C. Aquino's term, military service provision was suspended.
  • Basic Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC)
    • Became effective in school year 1986-1987.
  • Republic Act 7077 (1991)
    • Modified the ROTC program and introduced expanded ROTC courses (military subjects in the first year).

Key Incident

  • Mark Wilson Chua Incident (March 18, 2001)
    • Engineering student found dead due to illegal ROTC practices, leading to protests against the ROTC program.
    • Concerns regarding hazing and excessive punishments in ROTC.

Recent Changes

  • Republic Act 9163 (January 23, 2002)
    • Established NSTP for tertiary level students.
    • Amended RA 7077 and PD 1706.
    • Aimed to develop consciousness and defense preparedness among youth.

Components of NSTP

  1. ROTC
    • Provides military training to students.
    • Motivates and organizes students for national preparedness.
    • Graduates become reserve military.
  2. Literacy Training Service (LTS)
    • Trains students as teachers of literacy and numeracy skills.
    • Focuses on out-of-school youth and other segments of society.
  3. Civic Welfare Training Service (CWTS)
    • Aims to improve general welfare and betterment of community life.
    • Enhances health, education, environment, and public morals.

Implementation and Choices

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

Constitutional Basis for NSTP

  • 1987 Philippine Constitution
    • Section 4: Government's duty to protect citizens; citizens may be required to render military or civil service.
    • Section 5: Maintenance of peace and order is essential for democracy.
    • Section 13: Vital role of youth in nation-building; promotes patriotism and civic involvement.

Conclusion

  • NSTP plays a significant role in the development of Filipino youth and nation-building.
  • Encourages students to participate in civic duties and contribute to community welfare.
  • Emphasis on the importance of learning and knowledge acquisition.