President Duterte hoped the new graduates of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) would remain true to their oath despite the numerous things they can do in a fast-changing society.
Duterte said this as he graced the commencement exercises of the PMA Bagsik Diwa Class of 2022 in Baguio City on Sunday morning, May 15.
In his speech, the President noted how the world was quickly changing, causing even the men in uniform to change as well.
"The world is changing, and it is changing fast. And so do attitudes, mores, and values," he said.
"The man in uniform has not been spared this phenomenon, for he too, has undergone and will continue to undergo some degree of change or transformation, although he remains rooted in the basic concept of soldiering, which is to defend, protect and advance freedom and democratic institutions," he added.
However, Duterte hoped that the new PMA graduates would stay true to their oath as they strive to be "many things at the same time" if they want to be relevant to the changing times.
"He must be both a warrior and a peacemaker; an arms-bearer and a pencil pusher; skilled in the art of war and adept as a lifesaver; an offensive machine and a fierce defender; a tribune and a diplomat; a soldier and a civil servant," he said.
"You can be all these if you want. The Philippine Military Academy has sufficiently prepared you for all possibilities and all eventualities. The eyes of the Filipino people are upon you. Always remain true to your oath," he added.
The President reminded the graduates that they represent the PMA.
"By your actuations in public, The Philippine Military Academy shall be judged. You are the face of your alma mater," Duterte said.