By MARK REY MONTEJO

ILOILO CITY -- Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Richard Bachmann encouraged the participants of the Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) Games Visayas Leg to instill discipline and camaraderie in the weeklong multi-sports event that kicked off on Sunday, Aug. 13, at the Iloilo Sports Complex here.

In partnership with the Commission on Higher Education and the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Bachmann said the staging of the ROTC Games aims to promote sports among the cadets in the tournament that has athletics, swimming, boxing, arnis, weightlifting, kickboxing, esports, basketball, volleyball, target shooting, and other demonstration sports on its program.

“Today, we are gathered here in Iloilo for the inaugural ROTC Games Visayas Regional leg. This is indeed a milestone in the history of the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps, showcasing the dedication, discipline, and teamwork of our future leaders," said Bachmann who was joined by Sen. Francis Tolentino, Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas, Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr., and Malasakit@Bayanihan party-list Rep. Antonio Rolando Golez Jr.

“As we witness our cadets compete at the highest level of play, we all should realize that this is not just a showing of their physical prowess and mental agility, but also a display of their commitment to the betterment of our society — a commitment that resonates deeply with the principles of the ROTC program," he added.

“The ROTC Games are not just about competition; they embody the values that the ROTC program instills in our youth and the next generation. The ideals of leadership, camaraderie, and service to the nation are exemplified by these men and women, who have trained diligently to compete at this level," Bachmann said.

While winners will be soon evaluated for a possible spot in national teams, the ROTC Games also seek to hone the cadets in physical education which is an important aspect in their tertiary life.