Heroes Hall, Malacañan Palace
March 11, 2019

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte addressed several issues calling him a ‘misogynist,’ saying he has the utmost respect and admiration on the contributions of women in the country.

In a speech during the awarding ceremony for the Outstanding Women in Law Enforcement and National Security of the Philippines (OWLENSP), President Duterte reiterated that he has not disrespected and dishonored anybody.

“It’s not because when I say that I like women that I want to despoil or dishonor.  Hindi nila makuha eh.  Kaya sabi ko mahirap itong… Hindi nila makuha ‘yung ano ko.  Then they translate it the way they want it and appear me as a — made me appear as… Wala ho kayong ano.  Maski kailanman,” he said.

But the President said that his freedom of expression should be also be respected.

“Even if I am just a President, do not take it — do not take me away from the crowd of being a Filipino citizen,” he requested.

Furthermore, he called on his fellow government workers, especially the awardees, to continue being partners for change.

“I count on you, my fellow workers in government, to help our communities and our country safe and secure.  It is only by ensuring peace and order that we can attain a truly progressive and prosperous country,” the President ended.

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