DAVAO CITY— President Rodrigo Duterte has asked some 200 newly appointed public officials to help the government to curb corruption that has been practiced aong government servants.
In his message during the oath-taking ceremony Tuesday night in Malacañang, Duterte asked the new officials to support him and realize his campaign pledges to the people.
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,”Duterte stressed.
“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.
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.”he added.-ezc
