NEW BREED. Pres. Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. speaks at the 44th commencement exercises of the Philippine National Police Academy Masidtalak Class of 2023 at the Camp General Mariano Castañeda in Silang town, Cavite province on Friday (March 10, 2023). Marcos called on the graduates to become the catalysts for restoring public trust in the country's police force. (PNA photo by Alfred Frias)
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday called on the new graduates of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) to become the catalysts for restoring public trust in the country's police force.
In his speech during the 44th PNPA Commencement Exercises of the Masidtalak Class of 2023 in Silang town, Cavite province, Marcos said the graduates must serve with high moral integrity in protecting the people despite the current challenges faced by the institution.
“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,” Marcos said.
“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 (BJMP), as safekeepers of the general welfare of those persons deprived of liberty; and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), as protectors of the nation from fires and other emergencies,” the chief executive said, noting that they should fulfill their duties and responsibilities “with fairness and impartiality, regardless of status in society.”
He reminded the graduates that public service must be devoid of prejudice, favoritism or discrimination, stressing that Filipinos are entitled to equal rights and opportunities.
The President lauded the graduates for completing its cadetship program despite the Covid-19 pandemic, while also recognizing the efforts of the PNPA in 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 the beginning of your ceaseless pursuit of honor, integrity, and service,” he said.
Marcos, 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.
Through their efforts, the President said the government managed to reach out to the people in remote communities and provided them with the assistance and services they need to overcome the worst of the global pandemic.
He 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,” he said.
This year, there are 208 graduating cadets who have endured the challenges due to the restrictions brought by the Covid-19 pandemic, according to PNPA director, Maj. Gen. Eric Noble.
The PNPA reported that of the number, 186 will join the PNP, 11 to the BJMP and 11 to the Bureau of Fire Protection. (PNA)
