Thank you to the Secretary of the Department of Interior and Local Government, Secretary Benhur Abalos for his introduction.

[Please take your seats.]

The Excellencies of the Diplomatic Corps who have joined us here this morning; National Security Council Secretary Ed Año; the Napolcom Vice Chairperson and Executive Officer Alberto Bernardo; and the other heads of government agencies that are present with us; the Philippine National Police Chief Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil; AFP Chief of Staff General Romy Brawner; the officers, non-commissioned personnel, and civilian employees of the PNP; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen, good morning.

It is with pleasure that I join you today to be with our country’s brave peacekeepers and protectors as we celebrate the 123rd Police Service Anniversary.

For over a century, our police force has stood as guardians of peace, of order, and safety in our communities, ensuring the well-being, the security, and the dignity of every Filipino.

This noble work is perfectly captured in this year’s commemoration theme, “Sa Bagong Pilipinas, ang gusto ng Pulis, Ligtas ka,” which banners the PNP’s aspirations in this new chapter of our nation’s history.

Not only does this speak of our law enforcers’ commitment to ensure the welfare of our people, but it also advocates for a more profound transformation in the image of the police under a Bagong Pilipinas.

Sa ilalim ng Bagong Pilipinas:

Ang ating mga kapulisan ay maaasahan, malalapitan, at mapagkakatiwalaan;

Malakas ang kumpiyansa at matatag ang ugnayan sa pagitan ng pulisya at [ng] sambayanan; at

Tayong lahat ay nagkakaisa sa ating mithiing makamit ang isang mas mapayapa at maunlad na bayan.

I acknowledge the strong determination of our police to maintain peace, security, and harmony in our beloved country.

I salute all of the officers and personnel of the PNP, under the current leadership of Police General Rommel Marbil.

His tenure over the past months has been filled with noteworthy reforms and achievements that we can proudly present to the Filipino public.

Under General Marbil, the police have taken aggressive steps towards sustaining the gains of peace and order that we have collectively and painstakingly worked hard for.

The PNP has intensified its patrol operations and increased police deployment, contributing to a notable drop in crime rates, particularly in what was formally crime-prone areas.

Under your leadership, the police has responded to nearly all or to quote the actual number, 99 percent of the calls for police assistance.

Last May 30, we operationalized the PNP Cybersecurity Operations Center to intensify our cyber-patrolling.

This initiative enhances our police cybersecurity capabilities, thus ensuring that the police can handle the complexities of cybercrimes.

Our crackdown on illegal drugs, smuggling, illegal gambling, private armed groups, human trafficking, and criminality has also strengthened significantly in ways that are not only effective but legal and lawful.

Indeed, police operations are now conducted as humane, as truthful, and as bloodless as possible.

Lastly, your joint operations with the [Armed Forces] on Internal Security have led to the neutralization of close to two thousand or 1,951 members of local and communist terrorist groups.

These achievements were made possible because [of] the PNP’s resolve to uphold the rule of law and the unparalleled dedication and service of our police officers, led, of course, by our Chief PNP General Marbil. [applause]

To PNP Chief Marbil, you carry on your shoulders the honorable task of leading this paradigm shift, this transformation that we are doing, not only for the police, but for the entire society of the Philippines:

Wherein our police are not feared but welcomed in our communities;

Wherein communities work with the police out of trust —not mere compliance; and

Wherein citizens themselves become partners, vigilant partners against crime.

In carrying out this task, the police needs to be disciplined, transparent, and fair. Erring and corrupt police personnel will face the appropriate sanctions.

Remember your mandate and [place public] safety and service [at] the core of your duty.

I also urge all police personnel to support the leadership of the PNP. I trust that you will sustain your current initiatives and take care of the people’s increasing confidence in the PNP’s abilities.

So, as we commemorate your anniversary, we commend your sacrifices, hard work, and genuine service for the country. Remember that your tasks, regardless of magnitude or gravity, leave an impact on the lives of our people.

And to all our awardees this year, my sincerest congratulations on your well-deserved recognition.

May you serve as an inspiration for others to serve our people with integrity, excellence, and utmost dedication.

To all the officers and personnel of the PNP, rest assured we are prioritizing your welfare and also that of your families. [applause]

This Administration remains committed to supporting the PNP through the Comprehensive Capability Enhancement Program.

We will also continue to provide additional logistical resources and advanced information technology tools to further empower our police force.

As long as we are united by our common goal of protecting our people and ensuring that the rule of law reigns supreme, we are on track towards a safe, secure, and empowered Bagong Pilipinas.

Once again, a happy 123rd Anniversary to the Philippine National Police!

Mabuhay ang ating kapulisan!

Mabuhay ang Bagong Pilipinas!

Maraming salamat at magandang umaga sa inyong lahat. [applause]

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