Marcos to PNPA grads: 'Piliin ang marangal kahit walang parangal'

President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. called on graduates of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) Tuesday to serve with dignity even without being recognized amid the times where truth is being disputed.

Marcos said this as he graced the 46th Commencement Exercises of the Philippine National Police Academy ''Sinaglawin'' Class of 2025 in Silang, Cavite. The PNPA Sinaglawin Class of 2025 is composed of 206 graduates, with 168 males and 38 females.

''Sa mundo natin ngayon, madalas pinagtatalunan ang katotohanan at madaling maligaw ang katapatan, hinihiling ko sa inyo: Piliin ang marangal kahit walang parangal at ang paninindigan na tama kahit walang nakakakita,'' Marcos said in his speech.

(In this time where the truth is often disputed and honesty is often lost, I have a request for all of you: Choose to serve with dignity even without recognition.)

''My dear officers, this country will never ask you to be perfect. But it will ask you to be present. Be there. Let our people feel your presence, feel the presence of the law enforcers, feel the presence of the law,'' he added.

Marcos told the graduates that there would be moments where their principles and convictions will be tested.

''But whenever those days come and doubts creep in, remember who you are and why you chose this path,'' Marcos said.

The President asked them to always take into their hearts their oath to our Republic, the duty to uphold and defend the Constitution, and the responsibility to the citizens of the country.

The class’ Rank 1 is Cdt. Marc Joseph Vitto, who is also the recipient of the Journalism Kampilan, Best in Forensic Science, and Best in Education awards.

Vitto, who is from Oriental Mindoro, chose to be assigned to PRO12.

With the theme ''Kapulisan Na May Malasakit at Integridad, Sandigan ng Kaayusan ng Sambayanan,'' the Cadet Corps of the PNPA held a Parade and Review to honor the President and the Class.

The class name, which came from sinag (ray of light) and lawin (hawk), reflected the cadets’ mission to be watchful, brave and full of hope as future leaders in public safety. — RSJ, GMA Integrated News