Once again, good morning, especially to our newly promoted officers who have just taken their oath and, of course, their families and loved ones who are here with us today. We have with us, of course, the Secretary of the Interior and Local Government, Secretary Benhur Abalos; there are other members of the Cabinet present; ladies and gentlemen, good morning.
I am glad to welcome and congratulate the newly promoted star rank officers of the Philippine National Police.
As you take your oath today, you assert your new role as leaders of a renewed police force—one that takes pride in its integrity, competence, and the genuine service to the people.
The entire nation trusts that you will implement and oversee crucial initiatives that will improve public safety and security concerns in our communities.
Our people expect to see reforms under your leadership—positive changes that will make the agency more capable, responsive, and truly corruption-free, even amidst the many challenges that we face at present.
The foundation of effective law enforcement is public trust rooted in constant and open public engagement.
Thus, it is incumbent upon you—our new generals—to prioritize dialogue, collaboration, and cooperation within the communities that you serve.
You must likewise nurture a bond of mutual respect and support, where the people have faith and confidence in their police force.
To achieve this, it is imperative that we reiterate our zero-tolerance policy for corruption and human rights abuses within the PNP and for that matter in all of government.
Sa Bagong Pilipinas na ating itinataguyod, walang puwang para sa hanay ng ating kapulisan ang korapsyon, pang-aabuso sa kapangyarihan, at iba pang katiwalian [at] mga ilegal na gawain.
As officials, you are responsible for ensuring that all PNP personnel uphold the highest standards of ethics, professionalism, and respect for human rights.
I also expect that you will lead by example so that every officer and member under your command will adhere to these same principles.
I assure you that the national government will continue to find ways to pursue the modernization of the PNP. And that’s together with our efforts to build a new Philippines where both the government and citizens work together for progress and for prosperity. And we will also equip our police forces with the latest technology, and training, and resources to bolster your capabilities.
This will enable you to contribute in maintaining peace, which is the backbone of our society’s stability and well-being.
Hand in hand, let us lead our nation towards genuine and meaningful transformation.
May this milestone in your career inspire you further to lead once more with excellence and honor as you drive the PNP towards a New Philippines that is safer, more just, and more prosperous for every Filipino.
Again, congratulations! Mabuhay kayong lahat! Magandang umaga sa inyong lahat. [applause]
— END —
