Around 200 newly appointed officials were sworn in by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte in Malacañang on Tuesday and he rallied for their support to realize his campaign pledges to the people.
Congratulating the newly appointed officials, the President reminded them of their primary obligation to serve the country with integrity, impartiality and be duty-bound to defend the Constitution. They must also obey all laws and discharge their duties with utmost efficiency, honesty, and competence.
“I am optimistic that you will lead by example and inspire your fellow public servants to lead modest lives and uphold public interest over personal ones,” the President said in his speech.
“Be vigilant and lead the fight against corruption, undue patronage and other unethical motives that diminish public trust.”
The welfare of the people and the improvement of their lives are of utmost importance for the administration, he noted.
President Duterte also expressed optimism that the newly sworn-in officials will remain committed in pursuing the administration’s development agenda.
“I look forward to having all of you as partners of the national government in its efforts to intensify our fight against illegal drugs, criminality, terrorism, climate change, health emergencies, and other societal ills,” he said.
Asking for support in the government’s fight against illegal drugs, the President told the new officials that his administration is trying to protect the next generation of Filipinos.
“Ang problema ang next generation. I cannot gamble on. Mahirap. Marami akong apo. I have 11 grandchildren. Kabado rin ako kung anong mangyari sa kanila bukas. Kaya magtulungan tayo,” he said of the country’s drug problem.
“With your help, I am confident that we can leave behind a lasting legacy of ‘Malasakit at Tunay na Pagbabago’ for the benefit of our people.”
Also on Tuesday, President Duterte led the donning of ranks to newly-promoted Presidential Security Group (PSG) officials.
During a ceremony in Malacañang Palace, the Chief Executive personally pinned the rank insignia to the officers.
Among those promoted were Col. George A. Blanco to the rank of brigadier general, LTC Glenn Joy U. Aynera to the rank of colonel, and CDR Miljun C. Peñaflorida to captain.
The newly-promoted officers were accompanied by their families.
