Senator Dela Rosa Urges Closure of ROTC Bill Debates

Senator Ronald dela Rosa has pushed for the termination of discussions on Senate Bill No. 2034, known as the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) Bill, following extensive debates. Addressing the Senate on Monday night, dela Rosa argued that the bill, which has been under scrutiny since its passage by the House of Representatives in December 2022, should move forward to the next phase of the legislative process. The bill underwent committee reviews and interpellations in the Senate from August 2023 to January 2025. Dela Rosa emphasized that all public and senatorial concerns have been addressed, justifying his motion to end debates under Senate Rule 25, Section 71(d). He highlighted the bill’s status as a Tier 1 priority by the Legislative Executive Development Advisory Council and its endorsement by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who views it as crucial for national security and education. Dela Rosa called for unity among senators, stressing that the ROTC program would foster patriotism, discipline, and civic duty among students, enhancing national defense and disaster readiness. He believes that by equipping students with essential values and skills, the nation is preparing a generation ready to defend the country.