Reinforcing its commitment to forming disciplined, service-oriented, and mission-driven leaders, the Ateneo de Zamboanga University (AdZU) formally honored its Ignatian Cadets during the “Synergy: Companions in the Journey of Purpose — NSTP Graduation 2026” held on May 16, 2026. The ceremony marked the successful completion of the Cadet Officer Candidate Course (COCC), Basic Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC), and First Class Officers (1CL) program under AdZU’s National Service Training Program (NSTP), signifying a key milestone in the cadets’ journey toward civic responsibility and national service.
The event highlighted the formation of Ignatian Cadets dedicated to patriotism, honor, discipline, leadership, and service—values strengthened through military instruction and character formation in partnership with the Philippine Air Force (PAF) and the 6th Air Reserve Center.
In his welcome remarks, ROTC Coordinator Mr. Nico Carmelo S. Piccio emphasized the ROTC Program’s role in forming cadets into resilient, disciplined, and service-oriented leaders grounded in Ignatian values and committed to becoming men and women for others.
“The school’s ROTC Program has shaped our cadets to become individuals who are physically prepared, mentally resilient, and morally grounded, guided by the Ignatian values of excellence, compassion, and service. Our graduates are called not only to lead, but to lead with purpose and integrity as true men and women for others.” Mr. Piccio shared.
Delivering the keynote address, Commandant MAJ Jose Dean L. Sebastian PAF underscored the enduring significance of the ROTC guiding principle, “Pro Patria,” emphasizing that genuine patriotism is expressed through sacrifice, discipline, and selfless service to the nation.
“The motto ‘Pro Patria’ — For Country — is not an old slogan. It is a living commitment. It means loving our country only in words, but in sacrifice. It means serving even when it is inconvenient. It means placing the nation above self when duty calls…. The future of our nation will not only depend on politicians, generals, or institutions. It will depend on young leaders who choose courage over apathy, discipline over complacency, and service over selfishness. May you continue to embody the ideals of an Ignatian Cadet, faithful to God, committed to the country, and always ready to serve,” he stated.
The graduation rites were spearheaded by the SACSI-NSTP Office in partnership with the Philippine Air Force (PAF), the 6th Air Reserve Center, military training instructors, SACSI staff, and university offices, who collectively supported the implementation of the ROTC program. Their collaboration underscored a shared commitment to holistic formation that integrates academic development, discipline, and civic responsibility.
More than a recognition of completed training, the graduation rites reflected AdZU’s continuing mission of forming men and women for and with others—individuals prepared to lead with competence, compassion, and commitment to national service.
