PASAY CITY — President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Saturday, October 13, promised to protect the Chinese community, and advised them to be more assertive against graft and corruption.
President Duterte said this during his remarks at the Bangayan-De Leon wedding reception at the Conrad Hotel.
He told the Chinese community to have a stronger stance in the society. “I want [you to have] a stronger voice. And I want a Chinese community that is asserting for the sake of your children.”
The Chief Executive’s notion came about due to several reported incidents targeting the Chinese community in the country. “Lahat kasi ng mga extortion, lahat ng mga pang-api-api, ang karamihan Chinese,” he said.
“Parang one of the favorites na vini-victimize nila, either dito or from other countries visiting us. Kinikidnap (kidnap) tapos pinapatay. And by the police, ‘yung mga lagay-lagay. Ang paboritong victims are the Chinese or the Chinese community,” he continued.
The President also said that his administration is doing its best to combat corruption and uphold law and order nationwide.
He also assured the Chinese businessmen to seek government assistance whenever they are experiencing extortions from the authorities.
“Magbulong ka lang. BIR, Customs. Magbulong ka lang kung sino diyan. Sampalin ko ‘yan sa harap mo, maniwala ka. Oo, totoo ‘yan,” the President said.
“But ang problema nito parang malawak na. It has become a part of the culture na maghingi dito, maghingi doon. Tutal nandito na ako, nagsabi ako sa inyo. Anything about graft and corruption, you have a 24-hour access to me,” he added.
To further strengthen this administration’s advocacy, President Duterte demonstrates his support to Secretary Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go of the Office of the Special Assistant to the President, if he decides to run for senator.
“Meron akong aide na si Bong Go who wishes to be a senator of this Republic. He is a Chinese, but as Filipino as can he ever be. Lahat ‘yan, puro na ‘yan, Pilipino,” the President endorsed.
“I want him to protect the Chinese. But to be just even, neutral, at there are some things which are supposed to be corrected,” the President said regarding Secretary Go.
Meanwhile, during his message to the newlyweds, President Duterte reminded the Bangayan-De Leon couple to always remember that “great marriages are a partnership built on trust of two individuals” and “a choice made by the heart of a single day and that choice is reflected in the way you take your lifelong partner.”
He also wished the couple a lifetime of love and happiness. ### (PND)
