President Marcos pushes new police officers to rebuild PNP credibility
MANILA,
Philippines – In light of the organization’s current issues, President
Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has challenged graduates of the
Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) to be catalysts for restoring public
trust in the PNP.
Pres. Marcos
urged the graduates of the Masidtalak Class of 2023 at the 44th PNPA
Commencement Exercises in Silang town, Cavite province, that despite the
difficulties facing the institution, they must serve with great moral integrity
in safeguarding the people.
“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,” Pres. 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, adding that they should carry
out their responsibilities.
He
emphasized that all Filipinos are deserving of equal rights and opportunities
and reminded the graduates that they must act without bias, favoritism, or
discrimination in their public service.
While
acknowledging the PNPA’s efforts to generate competent and patriotic leaders,
the President commended the graduates for completing the cadetship program
despite the Covid-19 pandemic.
“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 added.
Marcos,
who was inducted into PNPA’s Tagapagbuklod Honor Society in 1989, lauded the
officers and staff of the PNP, BFP, and BJMP for their selfless dedication to
duty, especially during the height of the worldwide health crisis.
Moreover,
he acknowledged their efforts and sacrifices in combating crime, eliminating
illegal drugs, and rooting out other forms of lawlessness, and in providing
educational assistance programs for the heirs of active personnel who were
killed, injured, or rendered permanently unable to continue working as a result
of their service.
“I
assure you of this administration’s support to your plans and programs to
deliver more responsive, efficient, and effective services to our people,” Pres.
Marcos said.
According
to the PNPA, 186 new officers will join the PNP, 11 will join the BJMP, and 11
will join the Bureau of Fire Protection.