All roads lead to UNEP on October 31 as the University festively revel the 64th year of the Activation of the UNEP ROTC PA to hone young bodies and minds as reservists of the Philippine Army unit. The day of brisk and smart marching matched to the rhythm of the trooping band and inspired by the graceful stance of baton swirling and eye-catching beauty of the majorettes from among forty-nine (49) competing units vying for the titles in their respective category. Guest units shall come from the DLC and Minorettes of the Lads and Lassies Learning Center, Inc., the Band and Majorettes of Ceguera Technological Colleges, Inc., and the Band, Majorettes, and Color Guards of Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges. 

      In the announcement of the start of the parade, massed colors of the competing schools shall be heralded for the identification of the contingents to the competition. Host university units shall lead the parade at the city proper of Iriga, in the order of the UNEP: Minorettes, the College Majorettes and Band, the Color Guards, the ROTC Unit, the High School Majorettes and Band, the CAT Unit, the GSP Senior No. 31 and 43, the BSP Outfit No. 39, and the Rover Circle No. 07. Competing Units for Best Marching follows with Category 1 (CAT Mixed Company with Swords and Wooden Rifles) with 16 participating schools at the lead. Category 2 (CTP/DRRM Mixed Company without Swords and Wooden Rifles) present next with 22 participating schools, as Category 3 (MAPEH Mixed Company without Swords and Wooden Rifles) with 8 participating schools follow suit and Category 4 (ROTC Level) going out last from the UNEP Main Gate with 3 participating schools competing. 

      At its initial use of the UNEP Gate 2, a strategy that was a brainchild of High School Department Principal Froilan D. Celetaria, parade participants challenge both their agility and endurance as they extend marching towards the San Antonio Subdivision in order to gain access of the back gate by the UNEP Gym in returning to the UNEP grounds.  

      As the Best Marching Unit Competition ends at the UNEP grounds, other events set are as follows: Crack Platoon Silent Fancy Drill with Dance Number (Category 1), Crack Platoon Silent Fancy Drill with Dance Number (Category 2), Platoon Close Order Drill (Category 1), Emergency Rescue Challenge (Category 2), Emergency Rescue Challenge (Category 3), Field Stripping 5.56 mm (Category 4), Field Stripping .45 mm (Category 4), DLC and Majorettes Exhibition (Category 1), DLC and Majorettes Exhibition (Category 2).

     Activation is not merely wearing the uniform - it is the development of discipline, patriotism, and leadership which will test the strength, character, and commitment of each ROTC cadet and cadette. In acknowledgment of the unwavering support of the parents, the school administrators, and the host institution, the University of Northeastern Philippines,  may the values of Honor, Patriotism, and Duty be carried on beyond the parade ground and into the daily lives of the students as citizens who will lead tomorrow.

Photo| Ryan B.