President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Wednesday, August 9, graced the 116th Police Service Anniversary and highlighted the importance of having strong government troops.

In his speech at Camp Crame in Quezon City, the President announced that he has directed the training of security forces.

“I do not have the money yet but I am ordering the AFP to start the training of about 5,000. And sa police 2,000, I want you SAF-trained,” he said.

The Chief Executive said he wants tough and learned soldiers and a strong police as well.

“And when we are there, we’ll be able to fight the enemies of the state better and more equipped. I said you will have a priority in governance,” he said.

In addition, the President said that he has already prohibited both the Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces of the Philippines from buying second-hand arms and airplanes, among others.

He said he will buy new equipment for his soldiers and policemen.

Also during his speech, the Commander-in-Chief reiterated his support for PNP personnel, but also reminded them not to abuse their powers.

“And I tell you now: Do your duty and I will protect you. Do not abuse, do not commit crime, not the extra-judicial killing pictured by the human rights, just leave them alone,” the President said.

President Duterte also announced during his speech a two million bounty for the capture of policemen involved in the death of civilians who were buried at the back of a barangay hall.

“But do not go into the contraband itself. Like the policemen who are now shortlisted in the killing of so many civilians buried in a cemetery there at the back of a barangay hall. Each of you those policemen carry on their head now, I am announcing two million per head,” he said.

During the event, the Chief Executive led the presentation of awards to PNP units and personnel for outstanding achievements in the police service and for PNP personnel cited for their roles in law enforcement operations in strife-torn Marawi City. ###PND