Honoring Resilience and Community Service: USTP Balubal celebrates its first NSTP Culmination Ceremony

By Rae Lynne D. Yparraguirre, STRATCOMM Focal USTP Balubal
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The University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines in Balubal (USTP Balubal) marked a significant milestone with the successful conduct of its First National Service Training Program (NSTP) Culmination Program on May 30, 2025, at the Balubal Covered Court. The event, themed “Empowering the Filipino Youth: Resilience Rooted in Volunteerism and Patriotism,” was organized by NSTP Coordinator Engr. Reynante V. Hallazgo.

The culmination gave recognition to the accomplishments of NSTP graduates from the Batch 2021 down to the latest batch of 2024. The program aimed to acknowledge the contributions of the youth to national development and community service through the various components of the NSTP: ROTC, LTS, and CWTS.

Among the guest speakers present were Maj. Emil Charlie B. Jaudian (INF) PA, Director of the 1001st Community Defense Center; Cpt. Harry C. Devilla, USTP CDO ROTC Coordinator; Hon. Arem Alconde, representative of Brgy. Chair; Hon. Pablo M. Bactong, and the Guest of Honor and Speaker, Ms. Gracely H. Hodge, NSTP Director of USTP CDO. Also in attendance were Dr. Dennis A. Apuan, USTP Balubal Campus Director; Ms. Bernalyn Grace C. Alvarez, Academic Head; and Mr. Mark Anthony M. Bactong, OSA Head. Military support was further emphasized with the presence of TSG Alhadad B. Wilson (OS), PA, and TSG Joel A. Acalain (MI), PA.

The event featured an oath-taking ceremony for graduates of the Literacy Training Service (LTS) and the Civic Welfare Training Service (CWTS), along with members of the Ready Reserve Unit of the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC). Additionally, an orientation was held to inform the graduates about the roles and deployment associated with the National Service Reserve Corps (NSRC), ensuring they are well-equipped with knowledge for future civic activities.

One of the highlights of the event was the presentation of certificates, each bearing a unique serial number. These certificates signified the official graduation of the graduates, indicating their readiness to serve the country. In addition, the best trainees were recognized and rewarded for their outstanding performance and leadership during the training.

The culmination program is not only the fulfillment of an academic requirement but also the beginning of a higher call to national service. With this event, USTP Balubal continues to pursue its vision of shaping socially aware and patriotic Filipino youth, empowering them to contribute to the country’s growth, with grit and volunteerism as foundational pillars.