President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Wednesday, August 15, graced the 1st anniversary of the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban) Cares, lauding its role as the government’s “reliable partner” in times of need.
“Year after year, we continue to face challenges that test our strength as a nation and solidarity as a people. And in times of disaster, calamity, and conflict, PDP-Laban Cares has been among the government’s reliable partners in responding to those in need,” said President Duterte, who is also the chairman of PDP-Laban.
“It has been two years since I assumed office and I would not have had this opportunity of speaking before you today if not for your unfailing support and belief in my leadership,” he added.
The anniversary of the party’s non-political humanitarian arm coincided with the reunion of leaders of the party led by former Senate President Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III and former House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez.
The President underscored that in just a span of one year, the collaborative efforts of PDP-Laban Cares and its partners have provided relief and assistance to over 20,000 Filipino families who suffered from armed conflicts, fires, volcanic eruptions, and earthquakes.
“As we [undergo] reforms in this administration, our unity is now more important than ever. I therefore ask the continued support of PDP-Laban and its partners in creating practical solutions to address the root cause of our nation’s problems,” Duterte said.
The Chief Executive urged his party-mates to “remain committed to the party’s vision of liberating our people from the clutches of poverty, conflict, crime, illegal drugs, and corruption through the promotion of justice, equality, and good governance.”
“Together, let us become instruments of real change in society by advancing the PDP-Laban’s core agenda of federalism, preferential policy for the poor and the marginalized, religious tolerance, and equal opportunity for all,” he said.
“Hand in hand, let us uphold the concept of bayanihan as we improve the lives of our countrymen, strengthen the foundations of a more progressive tomorrow, and realize that our collective aspirations for the Filipino people will succeed. And with your help, I see a very bright future ahead for the Philippines.” he ended. ### (PND)
