‘I give you my salute’ Duterte says in PMA and PNPA Commencement Exercises

MANILA, Philippines – President Rodrigo Duterte led the virtual simultaneous commencement exercises of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) and the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) at the Malacañang Malago Clubhouse on Friday May 22.

“I give you my salute, ang gagaling ninyo (you are all outstanding)” said Duterte to the graduates of the PMA Masidlawin Class and the PNPA Mandayug Class, both of 2020.

He urged the graduating students In his keynote speech to adapt to change and remain faithful to their mandate.

“Graduates, the world is changing and we have to adapt to the changes, lest we lag behind. But like someone, I said, we can change in the changing world and yet cling to the unchanging values of life,” Duterte said.

He told the graduates to remain true to the 1987 Constitution and loyal to the Filipino flag.

He also expressed hope that the incoming military and police officers would inspire good values and adherence to the rule of law.

“These are values that make our society humane, and a nation progressive – a simple truth that is unassailable. I suppose that all of you are imbued with these values. After all, that is what your alma mater prepared you for,” he said.

He is also confident that the graduating class will grow to be fine soldiers and police officers.

“I am confident that I will have soldiers, the finest from our military school, and police graduates that you will be there to secure the Republic for all time,” Duterte said.

In honor of tradition observed by both academies, the President issued an order to pardon PMA and PNPA cadets who have outstanding punishments.