BAGUIO CITY, May 25 (PIA) -- President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has called on the graduates of both the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) and the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) to adapt to change and what is happening in the world during the joint graduation rites last Friday (May 22).
“Graduates, the world is changing and we have to adapt to the changes lest we lag behind. But like someone else said, “We can change in a changing world and yet cling to the unchanging values of life,” Duterte said in his speech delivered virtually in Malacanang
The President led the joint virtual commencement exercises of the 126-strong cadets of the PMA “Masidlawin” Class of 2020 held in Baguio City and the 227-strong cadets of the PNPA “Mandayug” Class of 2020 held in Silang, Cavite.
“Values like love of country, honesty, integrity, concern for the poor and the needy, adherence to the rule of law. These are values that make our society, humane, and a nation, progressive. A simple truth that is unassailable,” the President added.
He said that these values are instilled in the graduates since their institutions and almamaters have prepared them with such.
The President also expressed his admiration to all the graduating cadets in both institutions, the incoming military and police officers of the country.
“My soldiers, my policemen, the soldiers of the Republic and the policemen of this government, mabuhay kayong lahat at sinasabi ko saludo ako sa inyo.”
The President also said that despite the pandemic, they should still be happy and be proud to be graduating although very differently due to the COVID-19.
“Let not COVID-19 dampen the joy and pride that must be yours after going through gruelling years of study and rigorous training within the classroom walls and the perimeters of the parade grounds of your alma mater,” the President said.
This year was a very different graduation held for both institutions as it was closed to the public including family members and for media coverage to ensure safety from the COVID-19 virus. This was also the first time the President held a virtual graduation rites done for both PMA and PNPA.
During the graduation, the President also announced that a Certificate of Ownership of House and Lot worth P2 million from Vista Land Company of Manny Villar were also awarded to the Class Valedictorians- 2nd Lieutenant Gemalyn Deocares Sugui of the PMA and Fire Inspector Lei Anne Banico Palermo of PNPA.
Gun Certificate - Rock Island Armory Cal. 45 pistol with 3 magazines were also given to the class “goats” or graduates at bottom of the rank – 2LT Rexllwyn Johanne Olivo Eson for PMA and PLt Al Shadat Hassan Abdurajak for the PNPA.(RMC- PIA-CAR)
Source: Philippines Information Agency (pia.gov.ph)
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