MANILA — President Rodrigo R. Duterte has challenged government officials to become dedicated public servants as he led the mass oath-taking of the new presidential appointees.
“It is my sincere hope that as you take your respective oaths of office, you will not just become dedicated civil servants, but also effective agents of change in your respective departments and agencies,” Duterte said in his speech during the oath-taking rites at the Palace‘s Heroes Hall on Wednesday.
In front of his 100 new appointees, the President reiterated his commitment to fight corruption, illegal drugs and criminality.
“I limited it to corruption, which I’m really trying hard to do. And then the second issue, which is really very controversial is, sabi ko (I said), I will try to stop drugs in this country. And then the third is that I will just have to fix the law and order, especially on the streets,” Duterte said.
“And then I said that I will not tinker with money while in office,” he added.
He urged the appointees to fully use their skills, knowledge, and expertise in realizing the government’s vision of creating a better and brighter future for all.
“With you as part of this administration, I am confident that we can overcome the challenges we are now facing as a nation,” the President said.
Duterte encouraged them “to remain steadfast in fulfilling their oath to be ethical and honorable government workers.”
He also enjoined the officials to take part in enforcing mechanisms that will preserve, protect, and uphold the rights and freedom of the Filipino people as the country forges a more inclusive, responsive, and participatory government that looks after its citizens.
“You are the embodiment of this administration’s dedication to accountability in governance,” Duterte said.
“Be assured as well that I am with you as you lead with integrity, serve with compassion, and advocate noble initiatives that will promote sustainable development and lasting progress in the years to come,” he added.
Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Martin Andanar, and Special Assistant to the President Secretary Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go were present at the mass oath-taking. (Jelly Musico/PNA)
