President Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday evening called on the youth to assert their rights against corruption and oppression.
Speaking at the opening ceremonies of the Palarong Pambansa 2019 in Davao City, the President stressed to the thousands of student-athletes the importance of knowing one’s rights and upholding it against corrupt oppressors.
“You know, the only thing that this country needs is for you, the young people, to assert your right. That’s it. When they trick you, ask for money, or you are being corrupted, you tell the other guy, ‘Do not mess with me. Duterte told me to slap you, or else I will kill you or report you to him’,” Duterte said.
The President said the youth could help him tip-off about the alleged corrupt activities of the policemen, government workers, and even those who are working under the Office of the President.
“I don’t want that. I do not want oppression. I do not want corruption. If I catch you in the act, you will be first to go to hell. You will go ahead, but I will follow because I know that I will be going to hell,” he added.
According to the President, upholding rights again oppressors does not mean the youth have to engage in a fight.
“If you see oppression, don't allow it. You do not have to fight, you just assert your right… and report him to me,” the President said.
“If it is a case of corruption, or they trick you, I will open the gates of Malacañang any time of the day or night. Just knock there, tell the Presidential Guard that you’re a victim of betrayal, hold-up, or rape, and I will go out with you and we will try to solve the problem,” Duterte continued.
“If we cannot solve the problem, we will solve him. That’s just how it is. Either you give your victim justice, or I will give it to you,”he added.
Since assuming the presidency in 2016, the President has not missed the opening rites of the week-long national sports competition.
Aside from Duterte, Department of Education Secretary Leonor Briones, along with Philippine Sports Commission chairman Butch Ramirez, graced the ceremonies.
Presidential daughter Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio wasn’t able to attend the event. But instead prepared a short video message to welcome the 18,000 guests from all over the country, instilling to them the value of sports discipline and values.
Monday’s opening ceremonies marked the second time that Davao City is hosting the national games since 1950.
Meanwhile, before his four-day trip to China for a forum, the President announced that he will release several dismissal letters because of corruption.
In a Palace press briefing on Monday, Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said the public should wait for the announcement this week.
“Let’s just wait for it. Maybe, anytime between now and Friday,” he said.