President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. expressed confidence that public trust in government institutions can still be regained if agencies remain transparent and true to their duties.
Speaking at the 124th founding anniversary of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in Manila on Thursday, Marcos said that the Coast Guard exemplifies what good governance looks like through discipline, integrity, and unity.
“When I see the PCG in action, I see what the best of government can look like. That is discipline, with integrity, with excellence working as one,” the President said.
He admitted that controversies in recent months have shaken people’s confidence in public institutions but emphasized that honesty and faithful service can repair that trust. “Our people’s trust in government has been shaken; we cannot deny that. But I am certain that trust can be regained if we remain transparent and true to our mission,” he stated.
Marcos added that PCG personnel symbolize the government’s diligence through their rescue operations and daily patrols, assuring the public that service remains steady despite challenges. “Truly, the sea offers no defined path. It shifts and tests your steadiness. But I believe it also rewards those who stay the course and remain true to their mission,” he said.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to support the PCG with more investments in ships, aircraft, facilities, and communications systems. “We will improve training, facilities, and logistics to provide every PCG personnel a sense of dignity in fulfilling their roles,” Marcos said, adding that new facilities such as the PCG General Hospital, the Maritime Law Enforcement Training Center in Misibis, and the First Responder and Nursing Service Facility are underway to ensure the welfare of Coast Guard members.
During the ceremony, Marcos presented the PCG Anniversary Awards to 16 honorees for exceptional service and performance, including recognitions such as District of the Year, Ship of the Year, and Non-Uniformed Personnel of the Year.
He was also presented with a miniature model of the Pasig River Lighthouse, symbolizing the PCG’s enduring mission to act as a beacon of safety and service in the country’s waters.
