Marcos: Gov’t must serve with integrity to rise above adversities

The Philippine government must listen and serve with integrity amid adversities happening in the society, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. said on Saturday.

Marcos made the remark during the 128th founding anniversary of the Philippine Army as he emphasized that when peace and order are in place, the country can work towards prosperity.

“To achieve this, the government must lead by example, we strive for a government that listens, that acts and serves with integrity,” Marcos said. 

“That is the only way to rise above adversities and move forward as a people,” he added. 

The Philippines has been experiencing political turmoil following the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte due to crimes against humanity charges. 

Duterte is under the custody of the International Criminal Court, a move questioned by his camp and supporters, arguing that the ICC has no jurisdiction over the Philippines.

Marcos had explained that Duterte’s arrest was legal, saying that the government had honored its commitment, not with the ICC, but with the Interpol. 

'Pillar of strength'

Meanwhile, Marcos lauded the Philippine Army for its anniversary, saying that the major service has become a pillar of strength and stability for the country. 

He also stressed that in every institution, ranks or power will not be enough, noting that one’s own interest shall be set aside when serving the public. 

“Sa anumang institusyon, hindi sapat ang ranggo o kapangyarihan. Ang tunay na sukatan ay ang kahandaang na isantabi ang sariling interes para [sa] mas mataas na layunin,” Marcos said. 

(In any institution, rank or power is not enough. The true measure is the willingness to put aside one’s own interests for the higher purpose.)

“Bagama’t iba iba tayo ng papel na ginagampanan, dapat mangibabaw ang ating adhikaing bumuo ng mas nagkakaisa, mas makatarungan, at tunay na mapayapang bansa,” he added. 

(Although we play different roles, our goal must prevail to build a more united, more just, and truly peaceful nation.)

The Chief Executive vowed that his administration would remain committed to ensuring that the Philippine Army will always be prepared in fulfilling its mandate and mission. 

“We are equipping you with the arsenal to champion our rights and protect our national interests,” Marcos said.

In a separate press release, Philippine Army Chief Lt. Gen. Roy Galido urged his troops to be always “reliable in execution, responsible in leadership and relevant in addressing the ever-changing needs of our country and people.”

“As we raise our flags today, we salute all those who came before us and reaffirm our absolute and unwavering commitment to the future of an independent and progressive Philippines,” Galido said.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines said that they are prepared to defend and protect the Philippines from any threats inside and outside the country, while the Department of National Defense assured they are loyal to the Philippine Constitution.

“I have no reason to doubt that they will remain professional, and they will follow their duty according to the Constitution and civilian supremacy remains,” said DND Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. in a 24 Oras Weekend report by Ivan Mayrina on Saturday. —with Jiselle Anne Casucian/VAL/VBL, GMA Integrated News