Marcos to star-ranked PNP officials: Rise to the complexity of today's challenges

President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. on Monday told newly promoted officials of the Philippine National Police to ''rise  to the complexity of today's challenges.''

Marcos made the remark after he administered the oath-taking of 39 promoted police officials of the security organization, including four Police Lieutenant Generals, 11 Police Major Generals, and 24 Police Brigadier Generals.

''Balance the demands of law enforcement while preserving institutional integrity, adhere to human rights, and have effective leadership to address multifaceted issues that surround our country today,'' Marcos said.

''Let all your actions reflect the core values that we all hold dear,'' the President added.

Marcos reminded the police officers that as they acquire their new badges, they should remember that they are not only rising in rank but also in responsibilities

''You are stepping up into a position that demands no less than the highest standards of ethics, professionalism, and respect for human rights at all times,'' Marcos said.

''Always carry in your hearts your oath to our great Republic—to faithfully, honestly, and unequivocally uphold and defend our Constitution,'' he added.

The President said their actions should always be rooted to what is right, what must be done, and what is legally ordered.

''Perform your duties with utmost dedication, integrity, and accountability, knowing that the trust and confidence placed in you demands your very best,'' Marcos said. 

These officials must ensure that all PNP personnel are fulfilling their duties with integrity, competence, and trustworthiness, ''considering that our police force plays a very significant role to maintain peace and order, protect communities, and to respond in times of calamities,'' said Marcos. 

Among those who took their oath of office were Criminal Investigation and Detection Group chief Police Major General Nicolas Torre, former PNP spokesman Lieutenant General Bernard Banac, and PNP spokesman Police Brigadier General Jean Fajardo.—LDF, GMA Integrated News