CMU formally activates School-Based National Service Reserve Corps Unit
Central Mindanao University (CMU) formally activated its School-Based National Service Reserve Corps Unit (CMU-SBNU) in a ceremonial gathering on October 17, 2026, establishing a dedicated student reservist force for disaster preparedness and civic duty.
The activation inducted a pioneer batch of 68 Ready Reserve Category reservists who completed their National Service Training Program (NSTP) requirements.
Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Regional Office 10 Regional Director Antonio B. Sugarol graced the event as guest of honor. Dir. Sugarol administered the oath-taking ceremony and confirmed the official activation of the unit.
In his address, Dir. Sugarol emphasized that the unit represents an active obligation to the nation.
“The activation of the CMU School-Based National Service Reserve Corps presents more than just the establishment of an organization; rather, it signifies the school’s commitment, your commitment, to serve, to prepare, and to take action,” he stated.
Dir. Sugarol encouraged the newly activated reserve corps members to embrace their responsibilities. He reminded them that meaningful service is not limited to moments of disaster, but is demonstrated in their daily actions, toward their classmates, teachers, and school community.
CMU President Dr. Rolito G. Eballe expressed full institutional support for the program, highlighting the university’s pioneering role.
“This occasion is especially meaningful as CMU stands among the pilot institutions in the country to undertake this important initiative. Today, we mark more than the formal activation of a reserve unit. We affirm our commitment to volunteerism, civic responsibility, disaster preparedness, and service to the nation,” Dr. Eballe stated.
Dr. Eballe also emphasized the vital contribution of student reservists.
“We recognize that our youth are not only the future of our country. They are also active partners in building safer, stronger, and more resilient communities today. As an institution of higher learning, CMU is proud to take part in this initiative and help prepare our students for meaningful service to society,” Dr. Eballe added.
Office of Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (ODRRM) Director and Interim NSRC Officer Mr. Heherson B. Guinto presented the historical background of the unit, noting that the event represents the culmination of a long-standing vision.
“From a memorandum in 2012 to the ceremony we hold today, the CMU School-Based NSRC Unit reflects the work of leaders who kept faith with an idea through delays, challenges, and changes in leadership,” Mr. Guinto said.
Also present during the event were Vice President for Administration Prof. Hermie P. Pava, College of Nursing Dean Dr. Ellen Gay S. Intong representing VP for Academic Affairs Dr. Jose S. Valmorida, first-year students under the Literacy Training Service and Civic Welfare Training Service components of NSTP, and CMU ROTC Unit Cadet Officers.
The initiative stems from a 2012 Commission on Higher Education (CHED) directive. Preparatory steps were reinforced following Super Typhoon Yolanda in 2013, leading to CMU Board of Regents Resolution No. 35 in 2015 and the establishment of the university DRRM Office in 2020.
The newly activated unit operates integrated under the university’s ODRRM structure to lead student response in emergency operations, community welfare, and regional resilience efforts. The activation reflects the University’s commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. [Johnica Chantal G. Montero]
