Duterte to PNPA’s 2019 graduates: Don’t be deceived by power, fame

President Rodrigo Duterte on Friday called on this year's graduates of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) to stick to their principles as they embark on their journey as new members of the uniformed personnel.

Speaking at the 40th PNPA commencement exercises in Silang, Cavite, Duterte asked the PNPA Sansiklab Class of 2019 to bring with them the principles of integrity and loyalty as well as the values of patriotism and compassion instilled by the academy as they perform their duty to the nation.

He challenged the graduates to be the "greatest version of yourselves."

"Just keep in mind that your commencement exercise is just the beginning of a greater responsibility ahead of you as you choose the branch of service," he said.

"Excel in your chosen pursuits, lend your abilities to all our communities, and stand by your principles at all costs. Never be deceived by power nor by fame. What is important is ... your honor, for it is your badge towards genuine success," Duterte said.

The President enjoined the graduates to support and contribute to the administration’s fight against illegal drugs, terrorism and corruption.

"Now, more than ever, the Philippines needs optimistic and brave men and women like you who have the qualities to be effective and efficient public servant," he said.

He then assured the national government's continued support to the members of the Philippine National Police, the Bureau of Fire Protection, and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology through programs that would improve their capacity, uplift their morale, and ensure the well-being of their families.

Duterte also paid tribute to the late President Emilio Aguinaldo, whose 150th birth anniversary fell on Friday.

"May his gallantry, sacrifice and service inspire our graduates and the rest of the nation as we strive to build a better nation," the President said.

The PNPA provides preparatory education and training for future commissioned officers of the three uniformed services of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).

It offers the four-year Bachelor of Science in Public Safety cadetship program. 

Cadet Jervis Allen Ramos, who hails from Tondo, Manila, topped the Sansiklab Class of 2019.

He received the Presidential Kampilan Award and Chief PNP Kampilan Award.

Of the 201 graduates, 138 will join the PNP while 22 will serve in the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) and 41 in the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).

The Sansiklab (Sandigan ng Mamamayan na may Sigasig na Itaguyod ang Kapayapaan at Ipaglaban ang Bayan) Class is composed of 154 males and 47 females. — RSJ, GMA News