President Rodrigo R. Duterte officially inducted the 252 members of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) “MANDAYUG” (Mga Alagad Ng batas na may Diwa at simblolo ng bagong Araw na Yumayakap at Umaagapay sa Ginintuang Lahi) Class of 2020 as Commissioned Officers in the police, jail and fire service bureaus during the simultaneous virtual graduation rites of PNPA and PMA (Philippine Military Academy) yesterday, May 22.
With this, the Philippine National Police welcomes Two hundred five (205) cadets who will join the police service.
“I encourage our new Police Lieutenants to set the bar high as law enforcement officers. You should proudly carry our name and mission, as you work in furtherance of peace and order and security in the country. The challenges that you encountered while inside the academy only serve to mold your character as individuals and to enhance the best possible performance that you can apply in this career path”, PNP Chief PGen Archie Gamboa said.
“In our line of duty, you will be called on to save lives, while putting your own on the line. You will be tasked with big and small responsibilities and you must embrace them with equal commitment and dedication. Keep on reaching out to our people and let them know that you are ready to serve them with courage, integrity and compassion.” Gamboa added.
Meanwhile, 22 cadets will join the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) and 25 in the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).
The PNPA MANDAYUG Class of 2020 is composed of 178 males and 74 female graduates.
According to PMGen Jose Chiquito M Malayo, Director PNPA this year’s graduation rite was distinct and unique in the sense that the ceremony was not witnessed physically parents, relatives and friends of graduating cadets, rather the ceremony was “for cadets’ only”. In general, the graduation rites was closed to public to observe the social/physical distancing rule set by health authorities to curb the spread of the COVID-19.
Topping PNPA Class 2020’s order of merit is 24-year old First Class Cadet LEI ANNE B. PALERMO from Zamboanga City. She will receive the coveted Presidential Kampilan Award and a Plaque of Merit from the Chief Executive. Cadet Palermo will be joining the Bureau of Fire Protection.
Other graduating cadets in the top 10 are Cadets Julius Ceazar Tarnate, Zanda Gutierez, Lindon Narvaza, Jerelyn Barua, Irish Gumaru, Enrico Reyes, Jose Leander Velasquez, Lani Mendoza and Jesulita Javier.
The cadets were conferred the degree of Bachelor of Science in Public Safety (BSPS) upon graduation and will be appointed to the initial rank of Lieutenant or Inspector in their respective service bureaus.
