Duterte vows to set up trust fund for families of slain cops

President Rodrigo Duterte on Friday vowed to institutionalize a trust fund that would be used to take care of the spouses and children of policemen killed in duty. (Photo: King Rodriguez/ PCOO)

MANILA—President Rodrigo Duterte on Friday vowed to institutionalize a trust fund that would be used to take care of the spouses and children of policemen killed in duty.

In his speech at the commencement exercises of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) “Masidlak” Class of 2017, the President told the new graduates that the current war on illegal drugs and crime has claimed the lives of some of their comrades.

“The government will ensure our policemen that their families will be taken care of. I have also issued directives to provide assistance to the immediate families of your fallen comrades,” he said.

“That is why I will assure you now, I’ll make you the guarantee that I will leave a legislation that will put in trust so many billions. I hope it would be institutionalized, and that is my dream about three to four years, in place na ‘yan,” Duterte said.

The President also assured that the widows will be able to find work near their place of residence and that the children’s education will be paid by the government until they graduate from college.

In the meantime, Duterte urged the new police officers to remain strong in the face of adversities and reminded them never to stray from established rules.

“For the Masidlak Class of 2017, the arduous task of keeping our nation safe is just beginning. Never be discouraged, no matter how formidable the odds may be stacked against you. The government will be with you as you fight in the front lines for that dream of a better tomorrow and safer Philippines,” he said.

“You have been lectured on the rules on how to do it. Do it right. At kung napasubo kayo sa inyong performance of duty or duty-connected, ako ang may sagot niyan,” Duterte said.