MALACAÑANG — President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Wednesday, October 17, recognized the importance of the role cooperatives play in nation-building, noting they are vital partners of government in development.
“As we mark this milestone, may our cooperatives continue to demonstrate the time-honored spirit of ‘bayanihan’ by promoting a deeper sense of solidarity and cooperation among your members and beneficiaries,” the President said in his speech during the 103rd anniversary of Cooperative Movement in the Philippines.
“Let us sustain our reforms and march on towards the realization of our individual and collective aspirations,” he said.
The Chief Executive underscored the importance of coops in the country’s progress. “Nation-building is no easy task, and it is not the responsibility of government alone. That is why, we are here fortunate to have the cooperative movement as our partner in this endeavor.”
During his speech, the President also touched other issues that confront the country today, and the government’s thrust to solve these predicaments such as the fight against illegal drugs, corruption, and criminality.
President Duterte Renewed Commitment to Protect the Uniformed Personnel
Meanwhile, President Duterte graces the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ 49th Anniversary of the Office of the AFP Sergeant Major and the 22nd Non-Commissioned Officers Day.
The Chief Executive, during his speech, reiterated his commitment to the security forces that he would protect them as long as they perform their duty under the law.
“I am not after any personal loyalty. Just focus on your loyalty doon sa flag, and that is the Constitution,” President Duterte cited.
“[I’m not trying to] ingratiate myself na mag-diktador. You know, when my time is up, I’m going to step down,” he added.
During the event, President Duterte conferred the Order of Lapu-Lapu with the Rank of Kamagi to officers who were deployed during the Marawi Siege.
The recipients of the Lapu-Lapu, Rank of Kamagi medals were FCMS Romeo Jandugan (Ret.), FCMS Lito Tompayogan, SMS Engracio Gabo, SMS Manuel Lizada, SMS Eddie Arandid, SMS Lenio Abrio, SMS Richard Dalit, SMS Kenneth Paul Dulawan, SMS Benedicto Estanes, and SCPO Mario Vasquez.
Medals were also awarded to MSG Adryl Bolivar, MSG Rogelio Arcebutche, MSG Bruno Santowen, MSG Rolly Principe, MSG Fernando De Mesa, MSG Fernando Alvin Dioneda, and MSG Ramon Bejo.
The Order of Lapu-Lapu, Rank of Kamagi is given to government officials, government employees, and private individuals in recognition of their active participation in the campaign and advocacy of the administration. ###PND
