DAVAO CITY (March 24) — President Rodrigo Duterte on Friday, March 22, reminded the fresh graduates of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) “never be deceived by power nor by fame. What is important is your honor, for it is your badge towards genuine success.
During the 40th Commencement Exercises of the “SANSIKLAB” Class 2019, Duterte said, they have ‘to overcome the challenges within the four corners of the [PNPA] is enough proof that you are bound to be our country’s future leaders.”
The Commander-in-Chief congratulated the 201 cadets who have acquired academic knowledge and leadership skills from the Academy and told them that their commencement is just the beginning of a greater responsibility ahead.
“As you leave the halls of the Academy, bring with you the principles of integrity and loyalty, as well as the values of patriotism and compassion that your alma mater has instilled in you. These will serve as your guideposts as you perform your duty to our people and nation, ” he added.
Duterte encouraged the fresh graduates to support and contribute to the administration’s fight against illegal drugs, terrorism, and corruption. He also said that now more than ever, the Philippines needs optimistic and brave men and women who have the qualities to be effective and efficient public servant.
He then assured that the national government would continue to support the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) through programs that would improve their capacity, uplift their morale, and ensure the well-being of their families.
“I trust that, with rigid training you received from the Academy, you are now ready to face all the challenges that may come your way as you heed the call of duty, ” he said.
“Your goal must now be to serve and protect our people and country to the best of your ability. I therefore challenge your class, the “SANSIKLAB” Class of 2019, to be the greatest version of yourselves,” he added.
“Excel in your chosen pursuits, lend your abilities to all our communities, and stand by your principles at all costs,” he continued.
Duterte also commended the batch valedictorian, Cadet First Class Jervis Allen Ramos of Tondo, Manila, for being an “inspiration” to his peers that amid all the adversities and obstacles of life, he proved that “nothing is impossible as long as you keep your eyes on your goals.
Toward the end of his speech, the President underscored that he is looking forward to working with the new PNPA graduates to build a safer, more peaceful, and more progressive nation for all Filipinos.
The class of SANSIKLAB, which stands for “SAN-digan ng mamamayan na may SI-gasig na itaguyod any KA-payapaan at ipag-LA-ban ang BA-yan,” started its journey in PNPA on May 1, 2015 with 348 aspiring cadets. A total of 201 cadets graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Public Safety degree and would serve as inspectors in their respective field of service: 138 cadets will be part of the PNP, 41 for BFP, and 22 for BJMP.
Throughout their journey in the academy, the cadets who belong to the SANSIKLAB Class of 2019 breathed their motto: “Live as saviors, die as heroes,” which they would continue to carry now that they are officially members of the Philippines’ peace and security forces. PND
