The National Defense College of the Philippines (NDCP), as part of its 57th Foundation Anniversary activities in the month of August, conducted a tree-planting ceremony on 5 August 2020.

The Undersecretary for Defense Policy of the Department of National Defense (DND), Ricardo A David Jr, and the Vice Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Vice Admiral Gaudencio C Collado Jr AFP, graced the event.

In the remarks of DND Secretary Delfin N Lorenzana, delivered by Undersecretary David, the Secretary acknowledged the indispensable role of the NDCP in honing the skills of leaders in the defense sector. With reference to the uniqueness of each tree species planted during the ceremony, the Secretary recognized the wide variety of perspectives, skills, and experiences of the NDCP alumni.

Secretary Lorenzana also underscored the relevance of the NDCP especially that the current pandemic exposes various national security vulnerabilities. He then expressed support to the College as it shifts away from brick-and-mortar classroom while delivering quality education.

Members of the Master in National Security Administration (MNSA) Regular Course Number 55, as well as NDCP officials, faculty, and staff, attended the ceremony, which was held at the site where the future NDCP Academic Building will rise.