President Duterte and some members of his Cabinet turned nostalgic during a public address on late Monday night, Feb. 28, after he expressed his intentions to pass them on to the next Chief Executive.
Duterte was all praises to Transportation Secretary Art Tugade, National Task Force (NTF) against COVID-19 chief implementer Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., and Defense chief Delfin Lorenzana in his latest "Talk to the People" public briefing.
“Kung maregalo ko kayo (I will give you as gifts), Tugade, ikaw (you), Delfin Lorenzana, eh di ayos ang Pilipinas (the Philippines will be okay),” Duterte said.
“I could have not chosen better men,” he added, beaming with pride.
The President told Tugade he is ready to bequeath him to the next administration after he detailed the adjustment in public transportation capacities as the country deescalates to Alert Level 1 in connection with the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic starting Tuesday, March 1.
Tugade talked about the improvement of the road sector by the addition of more routes in Metro Manila and in the provinces, as well as the completion of port projects that are now ready for inauguration.
“I was awed, actually, looking at the slides and the way you (Tugade)—you have not changed. Your passion for achievement has always been there,” Duterte said.
“I am ready to pass you (Tugade) on to the next administration as a gift,” he added.
The President also told Galvez that he is “very happy" to have him leading the country’s fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.
“From day one, talagang, ipalagay na natin (really, let’s just put it like this), any superior would be very happy to have you,” Duterte told Galvez.
He also thanked Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez and Education Secretary Leonor Briones for their hard work and valuable contributions to the nation.