citizen army training

“The Citizen Army is the major anchor of Philippine Defense and Security. It is founded on the people’s participation in National Defense, Security and Development.”
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- Brigadier General Benjamin R. Vallejo (Ret.)

former Commanding General, MCMTC
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objectives

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As stated in Section 80 of Article VII, Title III of the National Defense Act and as amended.

a. To develop the spirit of Filipino nationalism;

b. To make the youth physically strong and morally confident;

c. To prepare the youth for good citizenship and military service;

d. To provide the youth with meaningful outlets for creativity and service; and

e. To develop the youth into self-reliant, law-abiding citizens and potential community leaders.

the 1986 philippine constitution (legal basis)
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Let us cite the significant provisions of our present 1986 Constitution, as well the past laws that governs our obligatory and mandatory duty as Citizens of the Republic.

1. ARTICLE II, Declaration of Principles and State Policies

“Section 4. The prime duty of the government is to serve and protect the people. The Government may call upon the people to defend the State and, in the fulfillment thereof, all citizens may be required, under conditions provided by law, to render personal military and civil service.”

2. ARTICLE XVI, General Provisions

“Section 5. The Armed Forces of the Philippines shall be composed of a citizen armed force which shall undergo military training and serve, as may be provided by law. It shall keep a regular force necessary for the security of the State.”

Corollary to this Constitutional provisions, we could still cite another provision from the same 1986 Constitution that may strengthen our role as the country’s hope and trustees for the future being the present Youth of the Land:

ARTICLE II, Declaration of Principles and State Policies

“Section 13. The State recognizes the vital role of the youth in nation building and shall promote and protect their physical, moral, spiritual, intellectual, and social well-being. It shall inculcate in the youth patriotism and nationalism, and encourage their involvement in public and civil affairs.”

Additionally, having the CAT Program under the technical supervision of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, we are subject to these provisions of the 1986 Constitution:

1. ARTICLE II, Declaration of Principles and State Policies

“Section 3. Civilian authority is, at all times, supreme over the military. The Armed Forces of the Philippines is the protector of the people and the State. Its goal is to secure the sovereignty of the State and the integrity of the national territory.”

2. ARTICLE XVI, General Provisions

“Section 5 (1). All members of the armed force shall take the oath of affirmation to uphold and defend this Constitution.”

“Section 5 (2). The State shall strengthen the patriotic spirit and nationalist consciousness of the military, and respect for people’s rights in the performance of their duty.”