President Marcos has reminded newly promoted police generals to strike a careful balance between enforcing the law and upholding human rights as they take on greater leadership roles in the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Marcos said this as he led the oath-taking ceremony of 39 star-ranked PNP officers in Malacañan on Monday, April 7.

In his speech, the President reminded the officers to promote human rights while enforcing the law despite the "complexity" of today's challenges.

"Balance the demands of law enforcement while preserving institutional integrity, adhere to human rights, and have effective leadership to address multifaceted issues that surround our country today," he said.

"Let all your actions reflect the core values that we all hold dear," he added.

Marcos pointed out that promotion entails greater duty and ethical standards. He also stressed the need for a strong moral foundation among the ranks of the police force.

"As you don your new badges, remember you are not only rising in rank, you are also rising in responsibility," he said.

"You are stepping up into a position that demands no less than the highest standards of ethics, professionalism, and respect for human rights at all times," he added.

According to the President, the police must remain grounded in legality and moral judgment in every aspect of service, saying the people expect them to embody these values in their actions, decisions, and missions.

"Let your actions always be rooted to what is right, what must be done, and what is legally ordered," he said.

"Perform your duties with utmost dedication, integrity, and accountability, knowing that the trust and confidence placed in you demands your very best," he added.

Lead by example

The President emphasized the importance of setting a good example as senior leaders in the force.

"You have been entrusted with the daunting but noble responsibility of leadership—to guide, to discipline, [and] to inspire the men and women under your command," he said.

"Ensure that all PNP personnel are fulfilling their duties with integrity, competence, and trustworthiness, considering that our police force plays a very significant role to maintain peace and order, protect communities, and to respond in times of calamities," he added.

Marcos said the Filipino people have high expectations of the police generals as leaders and protectors.

"Our people expect the police force that is reliable, responsive, and resolutely committed to protecting the lives of every Filipino," he said.

"Filipinos expect to live in a safe, fair, and just environment where peace and order are observed while upholding the rights and dignity of all citizens. Let us ensure we all live up to those expectations," he added.

With this, President Marcos told the police officers to let their actions reflect their values as they answer their calling to serve and protect the country.

"Mas patatagin ang pagiging maka-Diyos, makabayan, makatao, at makakalikasan (Strengthen being God-fearing, patriotic, humane, and pro-environment)," he said.

"Itaguyod natin ang isang Bagong Pilipinas kung saan ramdam ang kapayapaan sa buong kapuluan (Let us uphold a New Philippines where peace is felt throughout the archipelago)," he added.

A total of 39 PNP officers took their oath before the Commander-in-Chief, comprising four Police Lieutenant Generals, 11 Police Major Generals, and 24 Police Brigadier Generals.