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PNP, AFP remain loyal to flag, Constitution

March 20, 2023 Alfred P. Dalizon 180 views

THE Philippine National Police and Armed Forces leaderships on Monday reaffirmed their commitment to remain faithful to the Flag and the constitution and fight any attempts to undermine the duly-constituted government.

PNP chief General Rodolfo S. Azurin Jr. and AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Andres C. Centino renewed their respective organization’s full commitment to join hands in ensuring peace and order in the country similar to what they have done in the past.

“As we embark on yet another week of meaningful service, I am reminded of the crucial role that the PNP and AFP play in the fulfillment of our duty to serve and protect our fellow Filipinos. Our duty, as enshrined in the 1987 Philippine Constitution, is not only to maintain peace and order but also to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty and preserve its territorial integrity,” said Gen. Azurin.

The member of Philippine Military Academy ‘Makatao’ Class of 1989 spoke during the flag-raising rites at the PNP national headquarters in Camp Crame where Gen. Centino , his direct upperclassman from PMA ‘Maringal’ Class of 1988 was their guest of honor and speaker.

“As stewards of our nation’s defense, the PNP and AFP are inseparably linked, each relying on the other, to share a mutual goal – to uphold and preserve the tranquility, security, and wellbeing of our beloved country, preserving its interests with utmost dedication,” he said.

“Indeed, our alliance is firmly rooted in the common principles of selflessness, honor, and devotion to serving the greater good. We have seen firsthand the sacrifices that our men and women in uniform have made to ensure the well-being of our citizens,” the top cop added.

Gen. Azurin said that as a result of the PNP-AFP partnership, they have been successful in countering threats of violence and unrest in the country posed by insurgents and other lawless elements.

“ Our joint operations have prevented the escalation of violence, ensured the safety of our people, and protected our nation. The rapport between the PNP and AFP in the fight against communist insurgency and terrorism has been remarkable, and we should continue to strengthen our cooperation in this regard,” he said.

Both top security officials said they have also been working in unison to help the government mitigate the effects of the deadly COVID-19 virus during the start of the pandemic.

“We’ve also been working in unison during natural disasters and other emergencies like the Covid-19 pandemic and we are also grateful for the assistance extended in some of our police operations against illegal drugs, wanted persons and loose firearms particularly in conflict prone areas in the country,” Gen. Azurin said.

“As we continue to face new challenges in the ever-changing landscape of security, we must remain vigilant and committed to our mission. Let us continue to work together, bound by our shared objectives. We must remain dedicated to safeguarding the national interest, as we chart a course towards a brighter future for the Philippines,” he added.

Gen. Centino noted that the AFP and the PNP have been close partners in safeguarding the country’s peace and stability and both agencies have also demonstrated their respect to the Flag as members of the armed services perform with the highest level of professionalism.

He emphasized the major role being played by the police force in the AFP’s counter-insurgency drive even as the military continues to support the PNP in its law enforcement operations.

Gen. Centino also called on police officers and men from Northern Mindanao and Caraga regions to make sure they will also be awarded at Camp Crame for their exceptional accomplishments in the campaign against crime and terrorism.

The AFP chief said there is an ‘inseparable link’ between the military and the police with both relying with each other to serve the country while sharing the common principle of selflessness, honor and devotion in serving the common good.

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