Lead by example, Binay urges PMA alumni

MANILA, Philippines - Vice President Jejomar Binay has called on the alumni of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) to lead by example and help instill discipline among soldiers and police officers amid recent crimes allegedly involving uniformed officers.

During the Annual General Membership Meeting of the Philippine Military Academy Alumni Association Inc. (PMAAAI) the other day, Binay said lack of discipline among uniformed officers has made the public wary of their capability to protect and defend the nation.

“As PMA alumni and senior officials, you have the power to influence our young officers and cadets. They consider you as their mentors, who could serve as their motivation as they strive to become the respectable protectors and defenders that this country needs,” he said.

Binay cited the cases of two Caloocan policemen caught using illegal drugs and another law enforcer accused of raping a vendor in a police station.

Binay also cited the plunder case against former Armed Forces comptroller Carlos Garcia.

“If our protectors and defenders lack the very value that will guide them in carrying out the duties and responsibilities they were sworn to do, what then will happen to this country and the Filipino people?” he said.

Binay urged PMAAAI members to help inculcate and instill discipline among soldiers and police officers through personal example.

The PMAAAI is composed of some 7,000 retired and active members of the Armed Forces, the Philippine National Police, and the Philippine Coast Guard.

During the meeting, the PMAAAI conferred Outstanding Achievement Awards to Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Gen. Ricardo David Jr., PNP chief Director General Raul Bacalzo, Rear Admiral Danilo Cortez, Lt. Gen. Reynaldo Mapagu, and Lt. Gen. Arturo Ortiz.