The Office of the Vice President (OVP) celebrated its 88th anniversary on Wednesday, Nov. 14, by honoring all of the country's vice presidents who built the institution as the second highest office of the land.
"We honor the people who have made our institution what it is today," Vice President Sara Duterte said in her speech.
Vice President Sara Duterte speaks during the 88th anniversary celebration of the Office of the Vice President. (Inday Sara Duterte / Facebook)
According to Duterte, the past vice presidents "started, built, and strengthened the Office of the Vice President."
“Dahil sa kanilang sipag, talino, at matatag na pamumuno, naging mahalagang bahagi ng kasaysayan ng Pilipinas at ng buhay ng mga Pilipino ang OVP (Because of their hardwork, intelligence, and strength in leadership, the OVP became an important part of the history of the Philippines and the lives of Filipinos)," she said.
The OVP paid tribute to the past Philippine vice presidents in its anniversary "Lupang Hinirang" video featuring all of them, from Sergio S. Osmeña Sr. to Duterte.
In her message, Duterte also vowed to continue serving the Filipinos through programs and projects that would have a “lasting impact” on their lives, the OVP’s mission to serve.
“To reach, serve, and create lasting impact on the lives of the Filipino people,” the official said.
“Ang bawat hakbang na aming tatahakin ay patungo sa ikauunlad ng ating bansa at pagtugon sa mga pangangailangan ng bawat Pilipino (Every step that we will take is toward the progress of our country and addressing the needs of every Filipino),” Duterte added.
During the event, the OVP also honored its personnel who embodied exemplary service over the years. Among those given recognition were employees with 10 years to 35 years of service with OVP.
Duterte said public service is not an easy task.
"Your commitment is dependent on your tenacity. You cannot fully commit to public service if your spirit is weak," she said.
Despite the challenges facing the OVP, Duterte assured that they will push through with their aspirations for the country.