Marcos to PNPA graduates: Be morally upright, catalysts to restore public’s trust to police

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. on Friday urged the graduates of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) to be morally upright and be catalysts of restoring the public's trust in the police force.

Marcos witnessed the 44th Commencement Exercises of the PNPA "Masidtalak" Class of 2023 in Silang, Cavite. In his speech, he reminded the graduates that this is only the beginning of their ceaseless pursuit of honor, integrity, and service.

"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," 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, as safekeepers of the general welfare of those persons deprived of liberty; and the Bureau of Fire Protection, as protectors of the nation from fires and other emergencies," he added.

The President reminded them to fulfill their duties and responsibilities "with fairness and impartiality, regardless of status in society."

"Public service must be devoid of prejudice, of favoritism, or discrimination, for all Filipinos are entitled to equal rights and opportunities," Marcos said.

With a total strength of 208, the PNPA said a total of 186 police lieutenants are joining the Philippine National Police, 11 inspectors will be part of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, and 11 others will be included in the Bureau of Fire Protection.

Police Cadet Francis De Leon Geneta, a native of Sitio Dulong Kanluran, Barangay San Isidro, Naujan, topped this year's graduating class of the police academy.

Geneta will be joining the PNP. According to the police academy, he was raised by a single mother, a seamstress by profession.

Marcos congratulated the Class of 2023 for successfully completing their cadetship program despite the limitations imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. He also lauded the parents of the graduates for their support for their children.

"I would also like to thank all the parents and loved ones of the graduates for it is through your support and sacrifice that they were able to complete the program," said the President.

The President guaranteed that his administration would support the plans and programs of the police academy for a more responsive, efficient, and effective services to the people."

"Together, let us utilize our resources and synergize our efforts to create a more secure, a more peaceful, a  more harmonious society that allows every Filipino to realize their goals and reach their utmost potential," Marcos said. — RSJ, GMA Integrated News