With an exemplary performance, the Davao del Sur State College Reserve Officers' Training Corps Unit (ROTCU) has retained their crown as Champion, three times in a row, for the Regional Annual Administrative Tactical Inspection (RAATI), held on May 20, 2024, at the Davao del Sur Coliseum Ground.

Chaired by COL Romeo N. Bautista III, GSC (INF) PA, the event commenced with an Arrival of Honor ceremony at the DSSC Campus Gymnasium. This was followed by a courtesy call to the college president, represented by Vice-President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Siverlyn M. Camposano, along with Dr. Jeric Anthony Arnado, Director of the Office of Students Affairs and Services, and Dr. Amelie B. Trinidad, Director of Instruction. The dignitaries received a commandant’s briefing before moving to the Coliseum Ground for the ceremonial parade.

NSTP/ROTC Director Gary Dave I. Escoton, MAED, LPT, warmly welcomed the attendees. College President Dr. Augie E. Fuentes then delivered words of encouragement to the performing cadets.

The inspection began with the Relinquishment and Assumption of Command and Control, conducted by LTC Anwar Ray O. Celis (INF) PA and COL Bautista. The inspection covered a broad spectrum of military disciplines, including Administrative Inspection, Inspection in Ranks, Small Unit Tactics (SUT), Close Order Drill, Comprehensive Exam, Knot Tying, Semaphore Signaling, Theoretical Examination, Military Stakes, Map Reading, and the assembly and disassembly of the US CAL 5.56MM and M16A1 Rifle, and Silent Drill.

With hearts in their throats, the Alpha and Bravo companies, along with the other units that make up DSSC ROTCU, waited with bated breath as COL Bautista announced the results for each drill. The Davao del Sur State College ROTC Unit achieved an outstanding average score of 98.83%, securing the title of Champion among all higher education institutions in the Davao Region once more.

Months of rigorous training have paid off, as the DSSC ROTCU proudly remains the Champion for RAATI 2024.