President Duterte calls on Philippine military to do regular drills
MANILA – President Rodrigo Duterte called on the Armed Forces of the Philippines to do daily drills and perform better during the coming Second Presidential Silent Drill Competition.
Speaking at Change of Command ceremony of the Presidential Security Group, President Duterte said drills conducted by the military gives the people a sense of security and pride to see the uniformity in the cadence whenever military drills are executed.
“It might really be a copycat but you have been to China and you have seen the drill that the military shows off to the people every day,” President Duterte said.
He vowed to award P 1 million (US$19,509) during the coming drill competition in December this year which he may increase to P 2 million (US$39,179).
President Duterte said he will never have second thoughts to solicit the amount from friends who are proud of the Filipino soldiers and their love of country.
The ceremonies were held at the PSG Grandstand at Malacanang Park where Colonel Jesus P. Durante III took over command from Brig. General Eriel Niembra. President Duterte credited the Presidential Security Group for providing security to 19 foreign travels and 1,250 local engagements as well as full protection to heads of state and foreign ambassadors during their engagements at the Presidential Palace. (Melo M. Acuña)
President Rodrigo Duterte (Presidential Photos)