PRRD to uniformed personnel: Protect Filipinos from social ills

“Let me take this opportunity to remind you that you bear the crucial mandate of protecting the Filipinos from the social ills that have delayed our progress as a nation,” Duterte said. (KING RODRIGUEZ/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO)

MANILA — President Rodrigo R. Duterte has reminded the country’s uniformed personnel of their ‘’crucial mandate” of protecting the Filipinos from social ills that have plagued and delayed the nation’s progress.

Duterte made this call as he swore in 59 newly promoted personnel of the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) on Wednesday night at Malacañang Palace.

“Let me take this opportunity to remind you that you bear the crucial mandate of protecting the Filipinos from the social ills that have delayed our progress as a nation,” Duterte said.

“By heeding this honorable call to service, you must always keep in mind that the best interest of our people must always be your priority,” he added.

Duterte said the country has accomplished a lot since he took over as leader of the country nearly two years ago, but still, there is much to be done.

“Yet, there is so much to do as we continue our crusade against the root causes of poverty, corruption, terrorism, criminality and illegal drugs that have plagued — plagued our country for so long,” he said.

The President called on the uniformed personnel to take advantage of their new position to “promote the common good and to actively serve our citizenry to the best of your ability”.

“As these ranks are donned on you, may you always remember that the public demands a greater level of accountability, responsibility and integrity on your part,” Duterte said.

“Embody the highest standards of excellence and selfless leadership at all times. Do not settle for anything less,” he added.

He assured them of his full support in advancing the common good and promoting the safety and well-being of the Filipino nation.

“May this momentous occasion strengthen your dedication and commitment to help the government achieving genuine and lasting peace and progress across the nation. Together, let us build the foundations of a better life for all Filipinos,” Duterte said.

Duterte also urged the promoted personnel to follow the law at all times and avoid graft and corruption.