President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday urged the Philippine National Police Academy’s Masidtalak Class of 2023 to become agents of justice and serve with high moral integrity in protecting the people despite the current roadblocks which was on the path of new servicemen and women of the land.
“As the citizen’s peacekeeping force, be just, be morally upright, and commit yourself to protecting and defending the rights of our people notwithstanding the current challenges faced by the PNP organization,”
Mr. Marcos said in his speech during the 44th PNPA Commencement Exercises in Camp Mariano Castañeda in Silang, Cavite.
“I also ask you to be catalysts for restoring public trust in the Philippine National Police, and to be recognized as protectors and defenders of peace, order, and human rights; the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, as safekeepers of the general welfare of those persons deprived of liberty; and the Bureau of Fire Protection, as protectors of the nation from fires and other emergencies,” the President said.
He noted that the graduates should fulfill their duties and responsibilities “with fairness and impartiality, regardless of status in society.”
The President said public service must be devoid of prejudice, favoritism, or discrimination, for all Filipinos are entitled to equal rights and opportunities.
The Commander-in-Chief also congratulated the Masidtalak Class of 2023 for successfully completing its Cadetship Program despite the COVID-19 pandemic, lauding the PNPA for setting the highest standards in education, training, and research to produce competent and patriotic leaders.
“To our new graduates, remember that your diligence, perseverance, and commitment have led you to this moment, but know that this is only thebeginning of your ceaseless pursuit of honor, integrity, and service,” the President said.
Mr. Marcos also thanked all the parents and loved ones of the graduates for their support and sacrifice that enabled them to complete their cadetship program.
The President, who is an honorary member of PNPA’s Tagapagbuklod Class of 1989, commended the officers and personnel of the PNP, BFP, and BJMP for dedicating their lives in the fulfillment of their obligations, especially at the peak of the global health crisis. (See full story online at manilastandard.net)
Through their effort, the President said the government managed to reach out to the people in far-flung areas and remote communities and provided them with the assistance and services they need to overcome the worst of the global pandemic.
Mr. Marcos also recognized their efforts and sacrifices to address crime, eradicate illegal drugs and other lawless elements, as well as the provision of educational assistance programs for the beneficiaries of active personnel who were killed, wounded or permanently disabled and incapacitated due to the performance of their duty.
“I assure you of this Administration’s support to your plans and programs to deliver more responsive, efficient, and effective services to our people,” the President said.
PNPA director Maj. Gen. Eric Noble said there were 208 graduating cadets, “who have endured the challenges due to restrictions brought by the COVID-19 pandemic.”
The PNPA reported that of the number, 186 will join the PNP, 11 to the BJMP and 11 to the Bureau of Fire Protection—one of which was the only son of former Bureau of Corrections Director General Gerald Bantag.