Silang, Cavite
March 24, 2017

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte led the 38th commencement exercises of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) with the ‘Masidlak’ Class of 2017 held at Camp General Mariano N. Castañeda in Silang, Cavite.

In his keynote address, the President extended his congratulations to the 144-member graduating class led by batch valedictorian, former Cadet turned Police Inspector Macdum Enca from Cotabato City.

He also took the opportunity to recognize the fallen police officers who died in the line of duty, and cited the administration’s commitment in ensuring that the remaining members of their families would be taken care of by the government.

Among the measures that President Duterte mentioned for the PNP uniformed personnel included the increase in combat pay and incentives, adding that he also gave directives to provide assistance to the immediate families of the police’s slain comrades.

“The current war on illegal drugs and crime has claimed the lives of some of your comrades… Let us remember that those brave souls were also family members who selflessly laid down their lives to see a better tomorrow for the present and future generation,” he said.

The President also encouraged the newly-conferred police men and women to remain strong in their “hearts and minds” as they take in a great fight for the prosperity of the country.

“…The arduous task of keeping our nation safe is just the beginning. Never be discouraged, no matter how formidable the odds may be… Government will be with you as you fight in the frontlines for that dream of a better tomorrow,” he ended.

‘Masidlak’ is the acronym for ‘Mandirigmang Ahon sa Silangan Ipaglalaban ang Bansang may Dangal, Layunin, at Katarungan.’

This year’s PNPA graduation ceremonies mark President Duterte’s first attendance as Chief Executive and as Commander-in-Chief of the police.

Also present were Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Ismael Sueno, PNP Chief Police Director General (P/DG) Ronald Dela Rosa, and PNPA Director Police Chief Superintendent (P/CSupt.) Randolf Delfin.

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