DAVAO CITY — Three days after the national and local elections, President Rodrigo Duterte asked the newly elected officials to to earnestly serve the Filipino people and prioritize public welfare above everything.
In his televised Talk to the People aired Thursday morning, President Duterte congratulated in advance those who will be victorious in the 2022 elections and also thanked the losing candidates.
“I am hopeful that you will serve the Filipino people with all your heart and ability, and prioritize the welfare of the general public above everything,” the President said.
And to the losing candidates, he thanked them for their participation in the electoral process, hoping that although they weren’t lucky, they will continue “to serve our people in your capacity as leaders in your respective sectors and communities”.
Congratulating the Filipino people, he said: “You made the elections successful because you have made your will known by performing your sacred right and duty to vote.”
President Duterte likewise lauded the efforts of the Commission on Elections (Comelec), soldiers, policemen, poll workers, and volunteers in ensuring the peaceful conduct of the elections.
At the same time, he encouraged the Filipino public to continue supporting the Comelec and its civil society partners so that the poll body could do its work correctly and proclaim the winners.
The President expressed hope that the Comelec would find time to investigate the reported election glitches to ensure the sanctity of the ballot.
The chief executive also called on Filipinos to unite as he concludes his term.
“By noon of June 30, I invite the public to join me in running behind our new elected leaders so we can continue the difficult but rewarding task of building a stronger and more progressive nation,” he said. –PND
