LAMUT, Ifugao – Ifugao State University (IFSU) has officially regained its title as the Overall Champion at the 2026 Regional Annual Administrative Tactical Inspection (RAATI).
After last securing the top spot in 2023, IFSU returned to the pinnacle of tactical excellence with a remarkable score of 99.1%, outshining its peers across the Cordillera region. In a display of discipline and military precision during the evaluation period from April 15 to 20, 2026, IFSU led the field, followed closely by Mountain Province State University (MPSU) with a rating of 98.9% and Benguet State University at 98.7%. Notably, MPSU was the defending champion, having held the title in 2025 and 2024.
Rounding out the competitive field were Kalinga State University and the Abra State Institute of Science and Technology, which posted scores of 98.3% and 97.2%, respectively.
“Hats off to our ROTC unit for their world-class performance! Today, we celebrate the return of the championship title to IFSU, fueled by our core values of excellence, service, and integrity,” the university stated in a release.
The score of 99.1% marks the highest in IFSU’s history of participation, eclipsing its 2025 performance of 97.22% and surging past last year’s winning regional score.
The inspection, conducted by the Office of Reservist and Retiree Affairs of the 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army (ORRA, 5ID), evaluated the unit’s administrative efficiency and tactical proficiency. Under the command of Major Romel T. Maling (CE) and guided by C/Col. Julian Claire S. Cabudol, 1CL, the 988 cadets earned top marks from the inspection team.
The evaluation was led by Col. Camilo A. Saddam (GSC), Assistant Division Commander for RRA, 5ID, alongside Colonel Oscar B. Balignasay Jr., Group Commander of the 14th Regional Community Defense Group (14RCDG), RESCOM, PA. The rigorous assessment covered various disciplines, including company drills, map reading, theoretical examinations, small unit tactics, field stripping, and a specialized band performance.
In an address marking her final RAATI as University President, Dr. Eva Marie Codamon-Dugyon, an army reservist herself, lauded the cadets from IFSU-Lamut (Main), IFSU-Potia, and IFSU-Lagawe for their grit and transformation.
She reflected on her tenure, noting that while every batch carries the physical toll of training, they successfully transform that exhaustion into growth and excellence.
“Today, I see that same transformation in you,” Dr. -Dugyon told the cadets. “Carry your tiredness with pride. It is not a sign of limitation; it is a mark of effort, a badge of discipline, and a reminder that you gave your best when it mattered most.”
Col. Saddam also recognized the overwhelming support the program received from the university administration and the local community. The event saw a significant turnout of local leaders, including Board Members Pedro G. Mayam-o, Jordan T. Gullitiw, and Gaspar B. Chilagan Jr.; Lamut Vice Mayor Adryan B. Chaguile; and Nayon Punong Barangay Jose D. Tinapay, alongside IFSU Board of Regents members Lope A. Domingo Jr. and Shanet N. Gano.
Dr. Leudane L. Loñez, IFSU’s NSTP Director, credited the success to the cadets’ ability to manage the intense pressure of balancing military training with their academic responsibilities.
IFSU previously secured regional championships in 2018, 2019, and 2023. **Faith B. Napudo
