MARCOS DETERMINED TO CLEAN RANKS OF GOVERNMENT

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday reiterated his commitment to cleanse the bureaucracy to ensure that every public official and public servant deserve the trust of the Filipino people.

“Patuloy tayo sa paglilinis ng hanay ng pamahalaan upang matiyak na ang bawat opisyal, bawat lingkod-bayan ay karapat-dapat sa tiwalang ibinibigay sa kanila ng taumbayan,” President Marcos said during the awarding of the 2025 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos in Malacañan Palace.

Amid the flood control corruption probe he initiated, the President acknowledged that the current challenges faced by the nation have shaken the public’s trust in government institutions.

“Hindi madali ang laban na ito. Marami pa tayong haharapin, marami tayong pagdadaanan,” said President Marcos.

“It will be hard and sometimes it will be painful, but it will be worth it because what we are fighting for is a country that our children will inherit and a nation that they can be proud of, that they can be proud to say I am Filipino,” he said.

Addressing the question of whether the government can still be trusted, the Chief Executive pointed to the 10 honorees as living proof of hope and integrity in public service.

“In their service, you will find your answer. Because of them, we are reminded that hope is never lost, that integrity still lives in our institutions, and that honor still defines what it means to be Filipino,” President Marcos said.

Among this year’s Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos awardees are four teachers, three soldiers, and three police officers who all brought valuable contributions to the lives of many.

As the Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos program marks its 40th year, President Marcos said the award has become a “beacon of integrity and inspiration, proving that even at the most difficult times, there will always be Filipinos who remain committed to serving and leading with honor.”

The President extended his gratitude to Metrobank Foundation and its partners in the private sector – PSBank, Rotary Club of New Manila East, and Rotary Club of Makati Metro for honoring those who embody the best ideals of public service.