National Service Training Program (NSTP) Act of 2001 (RA 9163)

The National Service Training Program (NSTP) Act of 2001, officially known as Republic Act (R.A.) 9163, was enacted on January 23, 2002. This act established the NSTP for tertiary level students, amending previous laws like R.A. 7077 and Presidential Decree 1708. Its core policy affirms the government's duty to protect citizens and the citizens' responsibility to defend the State, emphasizing the youth's vital role in nation-building by promoting civic consciousness, patriotism, nationalism, and involvement in public affairs.

The NSTP is designed to enhance civic consciousness and defense preparedness among the youth through training in any of its three program components, which are mandatory for all male and female students pursuing baccalaureate degrees or at least two-year technical-vocational courses as a requisite for graduation. These components include:

Reserve-Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC): Now optional and voluntary, providing military training for national defense preparedness.
Literacy Training Service (LTS): Trains students to teach literacy and numeracy skills to various segments of society.
Civic Welfare Training Service (CWTS): Focuses on programs and activities contributing to general welfare and community betterment, particularly in areas like health, education, environment, and safety.

Each NSTP component is undertaken for two academic semesters or an equivalent one-summer program. All higher and technical-vocational institutions must offer at least one component, with State universities and colleges required to offer ROTC and at least one other. Private institutions may offer ROTC if they have a sufficient number of cadet students. Students may cross-enroll in other institutions if their school does not meet offering requirements.

Regarding fees, institutions can only collect basic institutional fees, not exceeding 50% of the current unit charge. Group insurance for health and accident is mandated for all enrolled NSTP students. A Special Scholarship Program for qualified NSTP students is administered by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

School authorities hold academic and administrative supervision over NSTP implementation, with CHED and TESDA regional offices overseeing and monitoring the program. Graduates of the non-ROTC components form the National Service Reserve Corps, which can be tapped for literacy and civic welfare activities, while ROTC graduates become part of the Citizens’ Armed Force. The Department of National Defense (DND), CHED, and TESDA are jointly responsible for adopting the implementing rules and regulations for the Act.

Overview of the National Service Training Program (NSTP) Act of 2001

Overview of the National Service Training Program (NSTP) Act of 2001