For Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, Filipinos can draw inspiration from the Bible on how to foster a purpose-driven mindset and achieve transformative change for the nation.
This was Cayetano’s message when he spoke at the closing ceremony of the PNP-Special Action Force (SAF) Command Course Class 123-2023.
Drawing parallels with the Biblical account of Moses leading the Israelites out of Egypt, he urged Filipinos not to settle for less than what God has intended for our nation.
Highlighting the story’s relevance to PNP-SAF in today’s context, he said persistent challenges remain in our country.
“When the SAF was created, you were a transformative answer to the challenges of that era. [Yet] 40 years later, we are challenged not only by terrorism and crime, but we are still facing the mindset na hindi natin ito kaya,” he remarked at the event on Friday, June 22, in Santa Rosa City, Laguna.
The senator called on the PNP-SAF to reaffirm their commitment as a transformative force in society.
“Ipakita natin ang purpose natin ay ang batas ay para sa lahat. No one will be left behind. Ang law enforcement ay hindi lang para sa inyo, kundi para sa bawat Pilipino,” he said.
Cayetano, who took the pledge together with the new graduates and wore the coveted black beret which stands as a symbol of their dedication to fight and die for the country, said he will continue to support and stand with the PNP-SAF.
“I’d like to make it a personal commitment to you today na y’ung kailangan ninyong sweldo, benefits — including educational, health insurance, at housing — ay dapat mas pagtibayin at ayusin ng gobyerno,” the senator said.
“Because, yes, some of you will be mothers and fathers or already are, but you cannot be thinking of two things. You cannot be focusing on how to increase your finances and then focusing na 24/7 naka-duty kayo,” he added.
In closing his remarks, Cayetano said he will keep to heart the pledge that he made with the elite force.
“Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Malaman po masyado ang binasa ko sa inyong pledge. Ibabaon ko po ‘yon, iuuwi ko ‘yon. Every single time that I will stand up at the session hall, committee hearing, and everytime I am called to do my duty, I will remember that pledge to give honor to class 123 of 2023 and to the SAF in general. God bless you!” he said.