MGA SONA NI PANGULONG RODRIGO ROA DUTERTE

Ang Unang State Of The Nation Address Ni Pangulong Duterte

Noong 2016

Kindly sit down. Thank you.

Allow me a little bit of informality at the outset. You

would realize that the three guys in the elevated portion
of Congress are from Mindanao. So, wala talaga kaming
masabi. [applause]

Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III, members of the

Senate, Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez and the members of the
House of Representatives, Vice President Maria Leonor
Robredo, President Fidel V. Ramos, President Joseph
Estrada, President Arroyo, Chief Justice Maria Lourdes
Sereno, and justices of Supreme Court, His Excellency Papal
Nuncio and members of the diplomatic corps.

We cannot... Well, of course, I have also to greet the

Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, the members of the
Cabinet, fellow workers in government, my countrymen.

We cannot move forward if we allow the past to pull us

back. Finger-pointing is not the way. That is why I will
not waste precious time dwelling on the sins of the past or
blaming those who are perceived to be responsible for the
mess that we are in and suffering from.

Except maybe extract a lesson or two from its errors we

will not tarry because it is the present that we are
concerned with and the future that we should be prepared
for.

Lest I be misunderstood, let me say clearly, that those who

betrayed the people’s trust shall not go unpunished and
they will have their day in Court. [applause] And if the
evidence warrants, they will have their day of reckoning
too.

When I decided to seek the presidency of this Republic, I

knew what the ills of our country were; I knew their
causes; and I was briefed on those who caused the causes.

I heard the people on the streets complain that justice had

become illusory; that equity and fairness and speedy
disposition of cases had deteriorated into hollow concepts
fit only for masteral dissertations. It was, and still is,
very sad indeed.

As a former prosecutor, I know there always --- ways of

knowing how fast or how slow cases go. What I did was to
look into the number of postponements and the time
difference between each postponement and the next setting.
It was simple as that. I will appreciate deeply if we all
in government attend to this urgent need.

I was determined then as I am now determined and better

positioned, to wage war against those who make a mockery of
our laws including those who make life for us all
miserable.

I wish to assure everyone though that vindictiveness is not

in my system. [applause] Just like you and I, all, equal
treatment and equal protection are what I ask for our
people. [applause]

But we must have the courage to fight for what we believe

in, undeterred by the fear of failing or losing. Indeed,
courage knows no limits, cowardice does. [applause]

At this point, there are concerns few I wish to convey to

all to the end that as I perorate on facts, figures, plans,
programs, and solutions, these concerns will not dissipate
or get lost along our way.

Thus to our religious bishops, leaders, priests, pastors,

preachers, imams let me assure you that while I am a
stickler for the principle of separation between church and
state, I believe quite strongly that there should never be
a separation between God and State. [applause]

During my inauguration last 30 [June] 2016, I said that the

fight against criminality and illegal drugs and corruption
will be relentless and sustained. I reiterate that
commitment today. And that is why I call on the Philippine
National Police, the barangay chairmen, the Mayors, and
Governors and all those occupying seats of power and
authority, not to lower their guard. There will be no let-
up in this campaign. Double your efforts. Triple them, if
need be. We will not stop until the last drug lord, the
last financier, and the last pusher have surrendered or put
behind bars [applause] or below the ground, if they so
wish. [applause]

To our police officers and other officials, do your job and

you will have the unwavering support of the Office of the
President. [applause] I will be with you all the way. Abuse
your authority, and there will be a hell to pay, [applause]
for you will have become worse than criminality itself.

I order the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) to hasten

the conduct of investigation and adjudication of
administrative cases against police officers involved in
criminal activities and illegal activities and prescribe
policies on lifestyle checks for PNP members.

In this quest, I will put at stake my honor, my life, and

the presidency itself. [applause]

The DILG is also directed to strictly monitor how LGUs

perform their supervision functions of the police and those
found not performing will be sanctioned including the loss
of police deputation from the NAPOLCOM. Let me repeat my
warning to all: Do not do drugs [applause] because you will
be the solution to the drug crisis that has engulfed –
malawak – the nation.

We will create an Inter-Agency Committee on Illegal Drugs

that will integrate efforts and strengthen the partnership
of all stakeholders.

The reservists will be mobilized for information campaign

against drug use and the dissemination of information
regarding drug rehabilitation programs being offered by the
government. Let us also strengthen our ROTC Program to
instill love of country and good citizenship. [applause]

We will also prioritize the rehabilitation of drug users.

We will increase the number of residential treatment and
rehabilitation facilities in all regions of the country.
[applause] The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will
facilitate the preparation for the use of military camps
and facilities for drug rehabilitation. [applause]

There can never be real, tangible and felt development

without making our people feel secure and it is our duty to
uplift the people’s welfare.
With this, my administration shall be sensitive to the
State’s obligations to promote, and protect, fulfill the
human rights of our citizens, especially the poor, the
marginalized and the vulnerable and social justice will be
pursued, even as the rule of law shall at all times
prevail.

My administration shall implement a human approach to

development and governance, as we improve our people’s
welfare in the areas of health, education, adequate food
and housing, environmental preservation, and respect for
culture.

Human rights must work to uplift human dignity. [applause]

But human rights cannot be used as a shield or an excuse to
destroy the country --- your country and my country.
[applause]

Meantime, since our country continues to be confronted with

internal security threats aggravated by the existence and
activities of the terrorist group Abu Sayyaf, the full
force of the AFP will be applied to crush these criminals
who operate under the guise of religious fervor. The AFP
shall enhance its capability to search and engage these
rogue and lawless elements.

We have to strengthen our coordination with Indonesia and

Malaysia to suppress the kidnappings in the waters of our
neighboring countries. We will strengthen our counter-
terrorism programs by amending various laws on human
terrorism, terrorism financing and cybercrime.

This is our answer to the challenges of the global

development’s non-traditional threats, transnational crimes
and fanatical terrorism. Addressing global warming shall
all will be our top priority, but upon a fair and equitable
equation. [applause] It must not stymie our
industrialization.

We also endeavor to develop and corporate partnerships with

nations sharing common interests and concerns with the
Philippines; maintain and sustain bilateral and
multilateral consultations and dialogues.

We will continue to expand cooperation on human assistance,

disaster response, maritime security and counter terrorism.
We shall deepen security dialogues with other nations to
build greater understanding and cooperation.

With regard to the West Philippine Sea otherwise known as

[South] China Sea, we strongly affirm and respect the
outcome of the case before the Permanent Court of
Arbitration as an important contribution to the ongoing
efforts to pursue the peaceful resolution and management of
our disputes. [applause]

On the aspect of our peace processes relating to our

engagement with the international community, the
Philippines shall remain committed to work under and with
international partners achieving lasting peace and progress
in the country.

We will vigorously address the grievances that have been

time and again expressed, not only by the Bangsamoro,
indigenous peoples and other groups for security,
development, fair access to decision-making and acceptance
of identities.

Enduring peace can only be attained only if we meet these

fundamental needs of every man, woman and child. [applause]

To our Muslim brothers, the Moro country, and the members

of the CPP/NPA/NDF, let me say this:

All of us want peace, not the peace of the dead, but the
peace of the living. [applause] We express our willingness
and readiness to go to the negotiating table, and yet we
load our guns, fix our sights, pull the trigger. It is both
ironic and tragic – and it is endless. While we extol the
bravery and heroism of our soldiers — kayo the rebels – do
the same for the members and fighters. What I see instead
are the widows and the orphans. And I feel their pain and
grief. And no amount of cash assistance or the number of
medals can compensate the loss of a human life. [applause]
Sorrow cuts across every stratum of society. It cuts deeply
and the pain lasts forever.

That is why, I reach out to you, to all of you today. To

our Muslim brothers, let us end the centuries of mistrust
and warfare. To the CPP/NPA/NDF, let us end these decades
of ambuscades and skirmishes. We are going nowhere. And it
is getting bloodier by the day.
To immediately stop violence on the ground, restore peace
in the communities and provide enabling environment
conducive to the resumption of the peace talks, I am now
announcing a unilateral ceasefire with the CPP/NPA/NDF
effective immediately. [applause] And call on our Filipinos
in the National Democratic Front and its forces to respond
accordingly.

Let me make this appeal to you: “If we cannot, as yet, love

one another, then in God’s name, let us not hate each other
too much,” so it was said. [applause] I say the same to you
today.

We will strive to have a permanent and lasting peace before

my term ends. That is my goal, that is my dream. [applause]

On the macroeconomic management, my administration will

continue and maintain current macroeconomic policies, and
even do better. We will achieve this through prudent fiscal
and monetary policies that can help translate high growth
into more and better job creation and poverty reduction. By
the end of my term, I hope – I hope and pray – to hand over
an economy that is much stronger, characterized by solid
growth, low and stable inflation, dollar reserves, and
robust fiscal position.

On taxation, my administration will pursue tax reforms

towards a simpler, and more equitable, and more efficient
tax system that can foster investment and job creation. We
will lower personal and corporate income tax rates
[applause] and relax the bank secrecy laws. [applause] Eh
na-Presidente ako eh. Ayaw ko sana makialam dito sa mga
‘to. Alam mo na. Well, anyway. May I continue.

At the household level, there must be sufficient income for

all Filipinos to meet the basic food and non-food needs for
their families. We shall continue attract investments that
will generate thousands of jobs each year – jobs that are
suitable for the poor and less skilled members of the
workforce.

Reforms to ensure competitiveness and promote ease of doing

business will be mandatory. [applause] Reacting to these
needs, the restrictions on the economy will be needed to
make more investments to come and to develop labor-
intensive industries such as manufacturing, agriculture and
tourism shall be pursued.
We must also invest in human capital and ensure equal
access to economic opportunities.

The implementation of the Responsible Parenthood and

Reproductive Health Law must be put into full force and
effect [applause] so that couples, especially the poor,
will have freedom of informed choice on the number and
spacing of children they can adequately care and provide
for, [applause] eventually making them more productive
members of the labor force.

When employment is not an option, for instance in extremely

rural neighborhoods, entrepreneurship will be advocated.

We shall also enhance local business environment by

addressing bottlenecks in business registration and
processing, streamlining investment application process and
integration the services of various government offices.

Government Financing Institutions (GFIs) shall come up with

out-of-the box financing packages to capacitate our small
and medium entrepreneurs.

In the field of tourism, we shall construct more access

roads and tourism gateways to service centers and tourist
sites.

Road development projects shall complement with our thrust

to provide modern agriculture, infrastructural by expanding
and improving the construction and rehabilitation of roads
and the irrigation and establishing modern harvest and
post-harvest facilities to minimize losses.

We shall also conduct a nationwide soil analysis to

determine areas most suitable for rice farming to optimize
production with the use of effective soil rehabilitation
and fertilization.

We shall strictly enforce fisheries laws, particularly on

illegal fishing and promote aquaculture along river banks
and in backyards.

On the other hand, we will accelerate infrastructure

spending by improving national roads and bridges and
implementing the Mindanao Logistics Infrastructure Network
[applause] and other road network master plans. We shall
pursue inter-island linkage projects.

We shall be implementing structural mitigation measures to

address of the perennial flooding in Metro Manila and
neighboring areas. [applause] We shall put up new pumping
stations in strategic places.

The revival of the operation of the Pasig River Ferry

Service System is a viable option for the severe traffic
congestion in Metro Manila.

This serves as an alternative mode of transportation for

passengers particularly those coming from the east side of
Metro to reach specific destinations within the cities of
Manila, Mandaluyong, Pasig, Taguig, Marikina and Quezon
City.

Our anti-colorum campaign and out-of-line apprehension

including the removal of terminals will be intensified and,
my God, it will be done. [applause] Immediately,
immediately.

To address lack of road infrastructure in Metro Manila,

usage of existing roads will be maximized. Thus, there is a
need to cooperate and coordinate with LGUs to map out
secondary routes and to consult various stakeholders,
including the public transport operators.

Many in government opine realistically, and I would have to

agree, that the worsening traffic situation could be
logically addressed, if Congress would also accord
emergency powers to the agencies concerned. [applause]

Ayaw mo? Okay lang rin. Para makita namin kung gusto
ninyong madalian. Alam naman talaga ninyo sagad na lahat,
sagad na. Nasa inyo ‘yan. If you give it, fine. If you
don’t, we take the longer route, slowly. And tanggapin ko
‘yung pag-mumura ninyo. ‘Wag lang sa malapit. [laughter] Eh
ganun talaga eh. You’ve done it. It's an urgent and
immediate situation, solution. Gusto ninyo madali lang,
okay. Kapag ayaw naman ninyo, because baka sabihin niyo
graft and corruption eh ‘di okay. But I assure you — wala
ito sa script — I assure you, this will be a clean
government. [applause]
If that is the only worry that you have and I can
understand your misgiving. Wala na ito sa... ang haba.
[laughter] Wala na ito sa script. You know, ako maka-
garantiya, 101 percent it will be clean. The problem is I
can only act through agencies and departments. That’s why I
urge you na maski konting mali lang, wala akong ano sa
inyo, wala na akong politika, wala na. I’m through after
this. I just pass on to you the information that, you know…
I act through secretaries and... I cannot guarantee their
honesty and competence at all times. Cabinet members, yes.
Pero yung sa baba — yung procurement, yung magbi-bidding
diyan. But as far as I can really --- malinis talaga ‘to.
At napag-usapan namin sa likod about the federal system.

You know my advice to you is maintain a federal system, a

parliament, but be sure to have a president. Huwag… Hindi
na ako niyan. [applause] I’m disqualified and by that time
I would longer be here. But, I can commit today to the
Republic of the Philippines and its people: If you hurry up
the federal system of government and you can submit it to
the Filipino people by the fourth, fifth year, proseso ‘yan
e. You call for a referendum and after that call for a
presidential election, I will go. Sibat na ako. But you
just have a president. You copy the France system. Huwag mo
hayaan yung puro na parliament. Delikado iyon. It takes
time even for the… Iyong kagaya ng England noon. There was
this bomb, double deck. It took them time really. There’s
no one apparatus for a commander-in-chief down. You can
have a president you can elect. Maybe Tito Sotto would be
the lucky guy at that time. O, ‘di, limitahan mo lang.
Ceremonial powers. Power to dissolve, power to accept the
resolution or whatever, mandating you this, do that, or
ceremonial powers except yung in times of need, if there’s
a demand for action. You must have a president. Wala na ako
niyan. I said if you can give me that document, I will urge
you to conduct a --- to order --- to order, call for an
election the following day, following week. And even if
there is still two years, three years I will go. Okay na
ako. Do not worry about me. I don't aim to that much
ambition. Eh nanalo ka eh. Hindi ko nga alam bakit nandito
ako ngayon. Noon nandoon lang ako o. [applause] Totoo man.
Sino man nagsuporta sa inyo sa akin dito? Wala man?
[laughter] Not a single congressman. Except for two
provinces, governor. ‘Yun lang. Wala akong barangay
captain. Wala akong… wala lahat. Pero ngayon. [laughter]
Processing time in issuing permits and licenses shall be
reduced to the barest minimum, in my city, it is always
three days for local governments. That will bind the Office
of the President down to the last barangay elect. Three
days. Three days. [applause] Local government. Business
permit, clearances, no follow-ups. Bigyan mo ng stub. Be
back next week, tingnan mo yung work load and I will
require every department, yung dito sa itaas. They must
have a log book. Huwag sa computer. Kasi itong ganito na,
nae-erase yan. Lagyan mo date, time, ‘I accept the
documents of Rodrigo Duterte.’ Then you go to your
computer. You must have an actuarial projections there.

Look at the work load. Napaka-bobo mo naman. Tingnan mo,

‘Ilan ang workload ninyo?’ Pagkatapos, 'O bumalik ka dito,
August 3, 3 o'clock.' Iyan 3 o'clock, ibigay mo, ibigay mo.
Ngayon, I will be establishing 8888, only for, dedicated to
corruption. [applause] Kapag may marinig ako sa Executive
Department, even a whisper, even a whisper, hiwalay-hiwalay
na tayo. Marami diyan, diyan sa gallery marami diyan walang
trabaho, nag-aaply hanggang ngayon. [laughter] Hindi naman
lahat kasi mayayaman yan eh. Mga asawa ninyo ata ‘yan.

While the issuance and distribution of motor vehicle plates

at point of sale, or through motor vehicle dealers shall be
considered. Huwag na sa LTO kasi hanggang ngayon, panahon
pa ni Hesukristo yung first plate nila, hanggang ngayon
wala pa. [laughter] Bayad na yon. Until now, sa awa ng
Diyos.

For the driver’s licenses, its effectiveness will be

extended from the current 3-year period to 5 years.
[applause]

To reduce queuing time at ticketing stations, tickets sa

mga train will be made readily available and easily
accessible to the riding public kung bilhin mo ‘yan sa
malls, stalls and stores. Eh ipinagbibili mo yung mga sa --
- e 'di diyan mo na ibigay at credited. Huwag doon banda sa
Recto kasi sigurado pekein ‘yan. [laughter]

May I address again to the Filipino: Ako po’y nagdo-doble

ang pagod para sa inyo, para sa kapakanan ng bayan. Seryoso
po ako. Kaya yung mga ganun, ticket-ticket at magkaroon ng
gulo, huwag ho ninyong gawain yan. Ito na yung warning ko,
yon na ang last, wala nang iba, hindi ko na gagawin: Huwag
ninyong sirain yung mga bagay-bagay na ginagawa namin para
sa kapakanan ng tao. Mabuti ang magka-intindihan tayo
[applause].

Mamaya yung kayo --- kaibigan ko --- tangad, tangad, tangad

[laughter] Kaya huwag na ninyong gawin. Simple lang ‘yan
eh. Para walang away sa gobyerno, yung mga bagay na illegal
at masama at hindi tama, huwag mong gawin, at hindi kami
mag-aaway dito [applause].

Pati yung pari ha --- pati si Pope tinamaan. Let us be

clear with each other. I am for the comfort and the welfare
of the Filipino. Kayo namang hindi pa bungog diyan, hindi
pa pumasok yang mga droga, eh kung ayaw ninyong mamatay,
ayaw ninyong masaktan, huwag kayong umasa diyan sa mga pari
pati Human Rights, hindi nakakapigil yan ng kamatayan. So
huwag ninyong gawin. Eh tapos nandiyan ka nakabulagta and
you are portrayed in a broadsheet na parang Mother Mary
cradling the dead cadaver of Jesus Christ. Eh yan yang mga
yan magda-dramahan tayo dito. [Dito ako nakatingin kasi
nandito ang public eh]. Alam mo, ilang beses ko na
sinasabi, sa Davao, ‘Huwag mong gawin kasi magkaka-problema
tayo.' He who is the cause of the cause is the cause of
them all. [applause]. Ikaw yung nag umpisa, you swallow ---

Ulitin ko ha: He who is the cause of the cause is the cause

of them all. Kami nagta-trabaho lang. We have a mission to
God. We have millions of people to see that they are
healthy. It’s a question of drug, it’s a question of public
interest, public order. Kita mo, lesser crime. Wala na
kasing magnanakaw, wala nang naghoholdap. Kasi para ---
Bakit tapos sabi nila eh, 'maliliit lang ‘ yan'. Gamitin mo
utak mo.

If you are able to contaminate, kagaya ng negosyo ng mga

Chinese, wholesale yan sila. Maski konti-konti kung the
whole of Tondo contaminated, pera ‘yan. I am not saying
it's the Chinese. Practice of nitong wholesale, retail.
They go for wholesale. Maski na kumita lang ng isang piso
diyan sa isang... Okay na yan. Kasi paramihan eh. Iyan ang
ibig kong sabihin.

Now, let... I hope the military and the police will not
react on this. It is part of the deep intelligence that we
have gathered. I am forced to come in public, kasi pati
yung mga pari nag-aano… Alam mo kayong mga media,
naghahanap kayo ng, "Where’s the big fish?" "Saan yung
bilyonaryo na mayaman, yung may kotse, yung may mga
Mercedez na yan?” Ma’am, nandoon yan sila sa labas, wala
dito. Maghanap ka ng isang batalyon na pulis para hulihin
natin doon. Kung kaya natin. They direct the traffic of
drugs sa kanila. Meron silang ganito, malaki. Real time.
Nakikinig sila ngayon dito. I am very --- 101 percent,
nakikinig yan. Nandoon. Doon lang. Izo-zoom in nila sa
Tondo. ‘O, itapon mo diyan. Tapos umalis ka, kunin mo doon
sa tindahan yung bag o package.’

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Nasaan yung mga nakikita ng media na... Kayo lang ang naba-
brand niyan na "drug lord" eh. Those are not the drug
lords. Mga lieutenant, delivery boy yan. Kumbaga LBC lang
yan pati DHL pwede rin. Pati yung tawag nilang "basura",
yun yung street ano. Huwag kayong maghahanap. Gusto niyo,
sabihin niyo, puntahan natin, I’ll give you the names. I’ll
show you the intelligence paper pero give me the guarantee
na may magawain ka. Because I’ll give you the name, I’ll
give you the country. Kung wala ka ring magagawa, mag-shut
up ka. [laughter]. Kaya hindi lang kami nag... But do not
get too personal about our work here. I am saying that
dito... [Balik na tayo kasi yung hindi nakakaintindi ng
Tagalog ano na yung, ang tagal naman nito...]

Passenger capacity congestion shall be addressed by

increasing the number of running trains from the current 16
trains [applause] with a total of 48 cars per hour, to 20
trains with a total of 60 cars per hour. You increase the
train speed from 40 [kph] to 60 [kph]. Ang problema nito,
yung mga railway na ito [Hindi na ito kasali diyan. Huwag
kayong maniwala dito] Two-thirds of these are mine, the
other third is yung --- correct yung grammar ko, ayaw lang
nila. Sixty kilometers per hour. Problema nito, and you
must agree with me, that the rails are quite aged. Most of
the rails maybe, doon pa yan sa panahon ni Marcos, Imelda.
Nandyan pa. Ngayon, sabi ni Tugade, pagbigay sa akin sabi
ko '40 to 60 kilometers per hour.' Sabi ko, ‘Art, sigurado
ka maka-hold ang rail niyan? Baka maputol ‘yan mag diretso
ang train sa Cavite.' [laughter]

Diretso ng Cavite, mulipad doon kay Tolentino. [laughter]

'O bakit may train dito sa Tagaytay?' It’s quite fast,
quite fast. Sixty kilometers per hour and you are pulling
something that’s heavy. When it really moves --- mawala ng
ano--- it moves with a speed at a heavy thing at a great
speed, ang hirap mong... Sumasadsad kasi mabigat eh and
reduce headway time from 5 minutes to 3 minutes. Mahina
lang tayo...Ang plano ni Tugade, mahina lang tayo ng one
minute sa Hong Kong. Two minutes, sa kanila three minutes
eh. Art, ambisyoso ka ah. Kaya mo kaya ito?

Specifically for the LRT, the operating hours shall be

extended from 9:30 to 10:30 p.m., so marami pang mga bata
ang uuwi niyan. [applause] And to absorb more passengers,
delays in the procurement of additional trains shall be
addressed soonest. Now, iyan ang sinasabi ko, if you want
the long way, fine. Wala akong problema. Sabihin ninyo na
doon ang --- we go the normal way if we are able to make
purchases.

Eh ang maganda nito, I have signed the Executive Order sa

aming FOI. Naunahan ko kayo. Iyong inyo... Nandoon na ang
sa akin [applause]. Oo, tapos na ako. Ilabas ko na --- it
will be out today. Alam mo sabi ko, unahan na natin itong
Congress, puro mayayabang ang mga nandiyan. We grab the ---
each other...They say, "stealing one’s thunder," ika nga.
Unahan na natin.

So, we shall also pursue rail projects in Metro Manila and

the major key-points in the country including the Mindanao
Rail Project [applause]. Hindi ako nagyayabang pero totoo
talaga ‘to. Well, depende sa federal. But six years,
lalabas talaga ito. I assure you because it’s going to
materialize: Rail projects, the Davao Transit System, the
Cebu Transit System, the North and South Luzon Railways and
the Panay Railways project. Kita mo? Panay. Eh taga saan si
ano? Eh 'di Panay. Panay ang bigay natin para… [laughter
and applause]

Sabihin naman ni Senator Drilon, 'Binack-bite ka dito.

Lalagyan daw nung ano, yung island mo ng train. May tawa
pa.' Binaback-bite ka dito. Mag-sumbong man 'yan. Tingnan
mo 'yan.
Different approaches are also being considered to decongest
NAIA including the possible transfer of general aviation.
Ito ang...I will... Hindi... Ang style ko kasi
ganito...Hindi naman ako... I am not sticking to
formalities. Itong trans — general aviation, alam mo kung
sino ang tinatamaan niyan? Kayong mayayaman. Kayong may mga
helicopter pati eroplano, ilipat ko kayo. [applause] Alam
mo yung general aviation niyo --- mga Learjets, mga 'yung
mga sa mga ano kumpanya, ilagay ko kayo sa Batanes para
wala masyadong air traffic [applause]. No, I’m offering
Sangley Point. [applause] Kasi kahihiyan ko ang isang
runway. I can make a new runway there, sabi ng mga aviation
experts but tumbok niyan is the Merville Subdivision. Baka
isa pa akong runway dito sa Metro Manila. But if not them,
it’s going to be Clark but on a condition that we will have
a fast train. Sabi ko kay Art, it will be something like
30. One hour of travel, sabi ko kay Tugade, is not
acceptable. Make a rail there bago, marami nang...
[inaudible] is the bullet train. Ilagay mo yan sa Filipino
na driver, sutoy talaga kayo doon, maglampas kayo.
[laughter]

The Clark Airport can be utilized to shift some operations

of our domestic and international airlines. Moreover, a
one-stop shop will be established within the civil aviation
complex for the benefit of the Overseas Filipinos.
[applause] Ito mangyari na ’to: To utilize the Clark
Airport, it is necessary to establish... Yung mga, well,
you have a rail to connect. [Tapos na yan. Itaas mo na kay
na i-Tagalog ko na.]

In the area of environment, the military is directed to

intensify its support [Makinig kayo, sigig tawa diyan] its
support role against illegal logging, illegal mining,
nandyan pa naman si Gina Lopez, and other destructive
practices that aggravate the devastation of our natural
resources. [applause]

I have to protect the country. Many are complaining against

the appointment of Gina Lopez. But si Gina pati ako, we
share the same paradigm: The interest of the country must
come first. But hindi ko naman sinasabi, there’s a law
allowing mining. Gina Lopez and I are just telling you:
Follow government standards. Do not destroy the
environment. Follow it to a tee. [applause] Wala tayong
problema. Just pay the correct taxes, follow the standards.
Gina is just doing her job. You know, she’s a really a
crusader, that is how I describe her persona: Crusader.
Sabi ko tama yan. Bakit? Nandiyan ba si Ma’am? Si Gina
Lopez? Secretary Lopez, nandiyan?

[DENR Secretary Lopez stands up and waves]

Ganito yan, pumunta siya sa Davao. Gabi na mga 1 o’clock

because on the early days of my --- when I won, pero hindi
pa ako nag-oath, marami nang nagpuntahan. Felicitations,
congratulations. Eh si ma’am pumunta twice. Every time, she
shows me the degradation of [inaudible] Tapos dalawang oras
naman mukhang hindi na matapos. Sabi ko, 'Ma’am'
[laughter]. Ma'am, do not be offended ha, totoo man. Huwag
ka magalit kay --- it’s the truth. So maga-alas tres na,
tapos extemporaneous siya, para ring congressman. Sabi ko,
"Ma’am, maga-alas quarto na." "Ma’am, ano kaya kung ikaw na
lang ang DENR?" [applause and laughter]

Bigla din siya nagsagot, “Totoo ka?” [laughter] "Oo." Hindi

yung "oo," [laughter]. Sabi niya, "I will ask the --- I
will consult my family and ask my..." The following day,
tawag siya kay --- my aide, kay Bong. Sabi niya, “Bong,
okay na, tinanggap na. Sabi ng pamilya ko, okay na.” Sabi
ko, “Hay, bantay kayo lahat.” [laughter] But you know, I
would not be appointing somebody who is alien to my
thinking. I would take in somebody who shares my horizons
in life, especially yung degradation ng ---

Tama yan. She is a crusader and she will continue. Dito

naman eh...The DENR is likewise directed to review all
permits granted to the mining, logging and other
environmental sensitive activities to ensure compliance
with government standards and if warranted, ito na yung
pinakamaganda: amend, suspend or revoke permits. Go ahead.
[applause]

I’d like to thank God that I had this opportunity really --

- I never--- wala namang ano, I never thought umabot ako
dito. I’ve always... That...Sa isip ko mahirap itong ano.
Itong Laguna Lake, naubos ang mga... Wala na ang fishermen.
Iyon na lang --- the difference with one big fish pen to
the other --- iyon nalang ang sa mga tao. Makita mo sa
plane every time I go to Davao, I pass by that lake there.
Every time nakita ko, talagang wala ng ano. And the
fishermen are complaining about their loss. Talagang wala
na sila kasi ang maliit na lugar iyon lang ang kanila. So
dito pinaraan ko lang in diplomatic way that the Laguna
Lake shall be transformed into a vibrant economic zone
showcasing ecotourism by addressing the negative impact of
the watershed destruction, land conversion and pollution.
Ito ang nilagay ko. This is what I am telling you. The poor
fishermen will have priority in its entitlements.
[applause]

Order to Gina is: Ayusin mo, Ma’am. Huwag mo namang ipitin

but they have to reduce the areas of occupation. They
cannot have their cake and eat it too. Sila na yung may
pera, sila na yung --- this must stop. So kung itanong,
'Sino ang may-ari niyan?' Simple lang: general, mga mayor,
governor, baka congressman --- this is not personal. This
is something that I feel that I must do because it is the
right thing to do. [applause]

To have adequate disposal facilities for the Metro Manila

Garbage, the final closure and rehabilitation of the
Carmona Sanitary Landfill shall be pursued while the
adoption of appropriate waste-to-energy facilities will be
explored. Marami yan. The technology is coming very fast.

In the area of governance, there is a need to strengthen

our efforts along this line. [Itaas mo na. Itaas yang
paragraph na yan] Ito... Select the best answer... [Ang
taas na. Huh? Mabubuang ka]

To better manage public information, a law should be passed

– I’m addressing Congress-- to create the People’s
Broadcasting Corporation, replacing PTV-4, [applause] the
government-run TV station, which now aims to replicate
international government broadcasting networks. Teams from
these international news agencies --- I’d like to mention
those interested BBC --- are set to visit the country soon
to train people from government-run channels to observe.
Ito ang gusto ko --- tutal pera naman ng tao --- to observe
editorial independence through innovative programs
[applause] and intelligent treatment and analysis of news
reports, as well as developments of national and
international significance.

The government’s Bureau of Broadcast Services, better known

as the Radyo ng Bayan, shall undergo upgrading to make it
financially viable and dependable for accurate and
independent, and enlightening news and commentary. Radyo ng
Bayan will be integrated with the PBC.
As we are presently setting up a Presidential
Communications Satellite Office in Davao City, PBC will
also put up broadcast hubs in the Visayas and Mindanao.
[applause] Davao City will also be the first site of the
first Muslim channel, to be called Salaam Television,
[applause] and the first Lumad channel. [applause]

The PCO shall coordinate with the Office of the Executive

Secretary and the Presidential Legal Counsel in
implementing the recently approved EO on the Freedom of
Information. There is an Executive Order, it's out. As an
example on the part of the Executive Branch to make
transparency and integrity as yardsticks in government
performance, savings and expenses while engaging the public
to be vigilant in participating in government programs and
projects.

The PCO, in coordination with the Office of the Executive

Secretary, is drafting the Administrative Order on the Task
Force on media killings.

This government does not condone violence and repression of

media. [applause] The bona fide media... Bona fide
media...Sometimes they pronounce it "bonafid". But whatever
that thing is, the bona fide media has always been our
partner for change. [applause] Medyo klaro yan. Anong gawin
mo sa hindi bona fide media? Iyan ang problema.

To address backlogs and low prosecutorial effectiveness and

efficiency, the investigation and case management processes
shall be streamlined including those for illegal drugs and
heinous crimes.

To eradicate the prevalent cultures of fear and silence

that have hounded our justice system, I asked Congress —
you — to enact the Whistleblower Protection Law while the
present Witness Protection Program shall be strengthened.
[applause] [Hirap maging Presidente. Maski dito lang.]
[laughter]

The number of lawyers and support staff in the PAO — that

is the Public Assistance Office — regional and districts
shall be increased to provide indigents with more access to
counsels. [applause]
At this stage, I also have directed the DILG to undertake
nationwide information and campaign on federalism in
partnerships with various alliances and with LGU, civil
society, grassroots and faith-based organizations.
[applause]

Punta muna ako dito ha, itong federalism. Ewan ko kung

tama. Alam mo, itong bayan natin, if I may just repeat. I
know that you know — on 1521, Magellan landed in Leyte.
[laughter] Kumare ko man ito. [Salamat, mare ha.]
[laughter] Mindanao was already Islam by 100 years. So, ano
ito, it’s an imperialism thing. There’s a historical
injustice committed against the Moro people. We have to
correct it. But it is well possible now. Kaya kayong mga
kapatid kong mga Moro, alam naman ninyo. Ako, I’m mixed.
Migrant ang tatay ko doon. So, mixed-blood ako. Moro pati
Christian. But, you know, intindihin na lang natin ito,
that we can return to you all. Iyong nakuha ng mga
Amerikano, Español, pati yung mga Pilipino, mga
kapitalista, those who exploited Mindanao with that thing
sloganeering go to Mindanao because it is a land of
promise. With the vast entry of so many people, basically
coming from the Visayas, magkaroon tayo ng… We cannot solve
it the way you want it to be. We have to understand each
other then you have to live with each other, but we will
try.

Ang sinasabi kong babalik ako, dahil ako sa federalism.

Both Misuari, Sema and all, at least the politiko leaders
ng Mindanao will agree to it. We do not...Remember that ako
‘yung… Hindi ko dinidikdik yung masyadong Abu Sayyaf
because it is really connected with the first talks between
Misuari, the President, subsequently President Marcos and
now, until now, until now.

The only way they said that we can have this. Iyong BBL,
ibigay na natin, minus the things that you do not want.
[applause] Iyong mga Constitutional issues. Tanggalin muna
natin. Ibigay ko yung area. Nandiyan na yan eh. So I ask
you pass it minus the Constitutional issues that are
contentious. [applause] Ibigay na natin at when the federal
system comes, isali mo na sa package, together with
Misuari. That is the solution for Mindanao. Nothing else.
Believe me. Nothing else will do. Please sleep on it,
ponder on it, because that’s the only way to proceed.
On the clamor of our citizens for timely issuance of
Philippine passports, the government shall work towards
amendment of the 1996 Passport Law to lengthen the validity
of the passports from the current 5 years to 10 years.
[applause] Tutal kayo naman ang maggagawa ng batas. You are
the ones who will pass the law, even if you make it good
for 30 years, okay ako. Bahala kayo. [laughter] Basta,
stretch a little bit because five years is just really
simply on a regular basis.

Matagal pa naman itong passport. Mag-apply ako, ten days.

Alam mo, I’d like to call the attention of Secretary Yasay.
If you go to Davao, look back doon sa… Look at the back,
likod ng nitong mall, yung malaking mall doon. O sige,
pangalanan na natin, SM. Doon, yung mga tao nandiyan sa
pavement natutulog.

For the many times nadaan ako na walang ulan, doon lang
sila because first come, first served. And the only outlet
there --- the outlet of your department is yung sa SM. So
yung mga, maawa ako. Dito sa side sa Cotabato, lahat ng
Cotabato, doon sa Davao. Karamihan yan, walang mga bahay.
If you’re an applicant in Davao City, fine. But you know,
kung walang, mahirap kasi. Karamihan diyan, mga Moro.
Naghihiga lang diyan sa pavement. Nasasaktan talaga ako.
Masakit eh. Buong gabi mo hintayin hanggang mag-bukas yang
SM kasi first come, first served.

Kaya sabi ko… But that is...I am addressing to all of the

Cabinet members: Make use of the computer. I do not want to
see people lining up under the heat of the sun. I do not
want people lining up under the rain. [applause] And I want
itong labor... Wala na ito sa script. [Iyong prompter
natutulog na siguro ‘to, papindot-pindot diyan.] [laughter]

Alam mo, nandiyan naman yan. Sabi ko what I want is a

journal. When the applicant presents the documents, give
them a shopping list. Do not add or get anything away from
it. Iyon lang yon, final. And when he complies with that,
that is good. Huwag mo na siyang pabalikin. [applause] Kasi
kung mag-tawag yan ng 8888, my God, puntahan ko talaga
kayo. Iyan ang bisyo ko noong mayor ako. It will not make a
difference mayor o presidente. Puntahan talaga kita, hiyain
kita sa maraming tao. And I would publicly ask you: “What
the hell happened to the procedure?” Pupuntahan ko talaga
kayo. Local, barangay, pulis, military, lahat. Bigyan mo ng
shopping list, huwag mo ng pabalikin. Because pag mag-tawag
ng 8888 yan, tapos makita ko na the grievance is valid,
bahala ka. Anong walang panahon? Pupuntahan kita sa opisina
mo. [inaudible] Bakit? Bigyan mo ng stub. You have to
employ actuarial ability, that’s easy. Para pag-tanggap ng
tao — I’m addressing myself, under me — journal. Papirmahin
mo siya. Lagyan mo doon, tingnan mo sa computer. Mag-
connect ka doon sa actuarial. Hindi mo kailangan ng bobo
diyan e. Matatapos siguro yan mga next month tapusin ko.
Projections lang naman. 'O, balik ka dito August 15, 3
o’clock.' Pagdating, ibigyan yan.

Now, if he goes to Malacañang, I’ll open it up. For those

who have valid reasons to complain about graft and
corruption, the gates of Malacañang will be open. Doon ka.
[applause] Mag-sumbong ka. At I will be briefed by my
military or aide or yung si ano, itong nagbigay ng tubig.
'Sir, dito marami ka.'

I have the reason why I do not go out. I do not accept

invitations. Hindi ako tumatanggap because every time I
travelled around Manila, it causes a huge congestion. Kasi
pag itong pag-uwi ko, [inaudible] by projection. Paglabas
ni presidente, ano yan, picture taking ganon. And they
start to block the--- yung roads access to the...Ganon
iyan. Everytime a president come out, ganon iyan. So,
paparahin nila iyan, sasabihin nila, dadaan iyan by this
time. And in the meantime, sarado yan. Paglabas ko, akala
mo Biyernes Santo. Walang sasakyan diyan.

Ikaw pala exponentially --- ang traffic, the tail end of

the traffic is somewhere [inaudible] And it would take
about two to three hours to normalize. Kaya hindi ako
tumatanggap ng... And I hate to travel. Kasi talagang
lilinisin eh. Ito namang… Kasi ang taas kasi ng entourage
ng Presidente. Dulo sa dulo may ambulansya. Hindi lang
entourage, parang [inaudible] Sabi ko: Dalawa, tatlo, tama
na, sa gitna lang ako. Pero ang totoo, mag-taxi lang ako
dito sa likod. Sunod lang ako. [laughter and applause] Eh
takot man sila na… Ano naman ang makuha ko kung patayin mo
ako? What for... May ambulansya doon. Dagdagan mo na ng
punerarya. [laughter]

I have also ordered the DFA to streamline documentary

requirements and passport applications and open additional
Consular Offices in strategic places to decongest Metro
Manila sites [applause] and avoid queues that have caused
hardships and suffering to passport applicants.
I have also directed the newly-created DICT, Information
and Communication Technology, to develop a National
Broadband Plan to accelerate the deployment of fiber optics
cables and wireless technologies to improve internet speed.
[applause]

Ito para ito sa… Alam ko, mahal kong mga kababayan,
maligayahan kayo nito. Ipag-paano mo lang yung Tagalog ko
kasi...Eh kayo hindi kayo marunong mag-Bisaya eh
'di...[laughter]

Wi-Fi access shall be provided at no charge in selected

public places [applause] including parks, plazas, public
libraries, schools, government hospitals, train stations,
airports and seaports. O ‘di ba? [applause] Happy lahat.

All government agencies are instructed to enable their

clients to submit applications for coordination to other
agencies combined. [Itaas mo, wala na yan. Ayaw ko nang
mag-salita.]

The national portal, yes, because it’s our parang website.

Ito: We shall intensify — mainit talaga ako dito – I place
it in parity with drugs. We shall intensify our war against
human traffickers and illegal recruiters that prey on our
migrants. [applause]

To help ensure that the hard-earned money of the Filipinos

overseas are put into productive use, a mandatory financial
education for all migrants and their communities will be
pursued with incentives to encourage entrepreneurship among
them.

I may now also ask on Congress to consider drawing up bills

consolidating and merging agencies and offices having to do
the Overseas Filipino to have a department that shall focus
on and quickly respond to their problems and concerns.
Kailangan ko ng isa. [applause] And I have asked… I don’t
know if Secretary Bello is here, Bebot. Wala? Absinero
talaga yan. [laughter] Maski sa Cabinet absinero yan. Gusto
ko, he will rent or we’ll lease some buildings here for
overseas only. At lagyan ko ng – and they will direct all
BIR, lahat na. BIR, lahat ng something to do with the
clearances of the police, in one building, may booth lang.
I said: My God! Make use of the computer.
So doon lang siya mag-ikot sa isang building. Ang Pilipino,
hindi na siya mag-punta doon sa Statistics. Hindi na siya
punta doon sa ano, diyan, diyan sa opisina. Gamitin ninyo
ang computer and you can get the results right after. Why
do we have... Has to travel to Malate, then he will just
stuck in the traffic. He can only accomplish one document
at one time.

NBI clearance is doon na ninyo ibigay. Lahat na doon na. At

kung dapat, may-awa si Bello, pakainin niyo yung mga tao
doon. Lalo na sa probinsya. Pagtingin ninyo taga-probinsya,
finish it right away. Make use of the computer. O kapag
hindi niyo ginamit yan, tapon na lang ninyo. Throw away
your computers and I will understand that. It would take
you years to do it. Do the computer. [Taas mo na yan. Wala
na yan.] [laughter]

Ito: To help avoid squatter-like conditions in relocation

sites, we urge utilities like Meralco and electric
cooperatives to exercise their social corporate
responsibility by making direct connections to relocation
sites and depressed areas.

Alam mo kung bakit? Kaya nga nilagyan nila diyan e. That’s

why I had to talk to you ganito. 'Bakit?' It’s because
walang kuryente pagka mahirap ka. You do not own the land.
That is my experience 23 years as mayor. Hindi magbigay ng
direct connection. Kasi hindi ikaw ang may-ari ng lupa but
that squatter, they have been there for 20 years.

So mag-connect-connect sila. Pag ka-connect-connect nila,

ang gamitin nila yung wire na, yung pinaka-mura. So it
overheats because connect-connect na lang sila kung sino
yung minsan magnakaw. You know, we will have to make the
adjustments. It is not for these people to make the
corrections because they are not in a position to do it.

We have to adjust to the needs of our people. Total diyan

naman yang sa squatter na yan, as long as I sit here as
President, there will be there no demolitions without
relocations. Hindi talaga ako papayag. [applause] Hindi
naman aso yan na --- just like in Davao. I’d like to make a
dialogue with the businessmen. “Sir, how much are you
investing in this land you have bought with the squatter?”
"So, I bought it at about 60 million." Dagdagan mo ng 20
million. Ako na ang bahala. Sabihin ko doon sa mga tao,
"Bili tayo ng relocation site or I will provide."
Government will expropriate. I will make use of the
expropriation powers. Ako ganon sa Davao eh. I have 20
hectares there. I will expropriate some land there. Iyong
malapit lang. Then sabihin ko: "This 20 million will help
your journey to a new land." And I will urge everybody na
yung mga bagong mga factories, doon sila mag-tayo.

Magtiis-tiis lang muna kayo. In the meantime, you have to

mitigate the hardships of these people. That’s the only way
to do it. Sa demolition, walang matirahan ang tao. Tutal
you sat on your rights for many years eh bakit mo ngayon,
pipilitin mo ako magka-problema ng ganon? Eh may iba kasi,
hinahayaan nila. Ten, 20 years, they do nothing. And when
the time, comes, na pagbili lang nila, tayo na disturbuhin.
O ‘di gumastos ka para mas madali. Just add a little bit
more and there will be at least peace. Pag hindi, wala yan.
Fight na naman ‘yan, between government and the tawag nila,
"squatters". Squatters naman talaga yan. Masasaktan lang
mamatay for no reason at all. Eh kung mayaman ka, bigyan mo
ng konting ano, provide a relocation. And I’ll be glad to
talk to the people and say: “Go. It is not yours.”

I have directed the concerned regulatory agencies to

prioritize the issuance of required permits for power
development. Okay ‘yan sa akin. Ang problema sandali ito.
[Para ka diyan.] Iyong mga environmentalist, meron tayong,
meron tayong, ano kasi – marami ang coal. Pati yang... Ito
nga, itong energy emissions, wala man akong problema diyan.
But do not tell me na, if you... Ambassador ka tapos
sabihin mo sa akin na, 'medyo hanggang diyan lang kayo,
kasi kami hangang dito lang kami. ' Sabi ko, 'Ano? Kayo
umabot diyan. You are now in the apex of your industrial
might. But along the way, you were the first – America,
China, Europe.' Kayong bomba-bomba, until now we contribute
only something point zero. So, if you put so much
restrictions doon sa treaty na yan, the treaty which we are
trying to – it's still here in the Senate. Let us be very
clear on this: We need to industrialize. We need the power
and, therefore, the emissions would also be considered. You
just can't say it: 'I established five economic zones
here'. And you start to say that, 'you are spewing so much
carbon footprints'. Mahirap yan. I mean, it's hard. I
cannot just agree on anything that will delay. I’m only
good for six years.

And I intend to do something during my term. Now, I’m sure

that the heavy machineries would come in and even the
power, cheapest is coal. So ito naman locally, you get in
trouble with Gina. So, we'll just talk sa Cabinet na lang.
Si Gina naman is a very fine lady. Huwag ka lang
magsimangot sa harapan niya. Bigyan ka niya permit maski
lima. Magsimangot ka, zero. [laughter]

Oo, just be gracious to her, that's all. It's a matter of

talking and explaining to them. But if it is... You're
using the state of the art technology and I’ve seen it
several times in the other power plants in this country. If
it is really a good one, then we will consider, I said,
because we need the energy to power our
industrialization.[applause]

To strengthen the delivery of social services, the

government will intensify its protection programs, so it
can use its resources, expertise to make a dent in the
country’s poverty levels.

What we want is genuinely to reduce the vulnerabilities of

our people, build resiliency and empower individuals, and
families and communities.

The beneficiaries of 4Ps shall be made to become

independent and self-reliant after they have graduated from
the program [applause]. But the aim is to present it with
other forms of assistance, so that they can stand on their
own two feet.

But now, I have decided to direct the DSWD to provide the

rice subsidies to the poorest of the families, at least,
para makakain lang every month. [applause]

Iyong sako na ano...

We are planning to increase spending on basic education and

incorporate mandatory education about the evils of drugs.

We will also intensify and expand Alternative Learning

System programs. The government will also provide universal
health insurance for all Filipinos [applause]. Benefits –
Sali na lang natin sa PhilHealth.

The professional competence and operational capabilities of

government hospitals and health facilities will be
strengthened.
Consistent with our international obligations, in keeping
with national mandates, this administration vows to protect
women’s rights and human rights abuses [applause] against
our women, because this unacceptable to... Kung mag-bugbog
ka ng babae.

Thus, I order all agencies and oversight bodies and local

government units down to the barangay level to fully
implement the Magna Carta for Women. [applause] By doing
so, we'll ensure that man and woman will be partners in the
pursuit of country’s economic, social, and cultural and
political developments.

To our Lumad brothers, and they are here outside. Outside?

They are here outside I’m sure . I told the... Just to let
them come if they want. Kanila man ito.

To our brothers, I have this to say: The government has

issued you the Ancestral Certificates Domain Title covering
vast tracts of land especially in the Island of Mindanao.
You have the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act, and the
National Commission on Indigenous Peoples to protect you
and to assist you.

Government has given you the tool, the legal tool to

improve yourself financially, economically and socially.
Make use of your ancestral domain. Do not let it remain
idle.

While the government is always ready to help you, you must

first help yourself. We cannot legislate financial and
economic progress for you. It is you and you alone who can
do that. You can chart your fate, but do it within
constitutional and legal means.

After being devastated by natural and man-made calamities

these past few years, we are still to recover emotionally
from the loss of our loved ones, and materially from the
loss of our homes and our income sources.

There are many among us whose emotional wounds are still

fresh and painful to the touch. We cannot erase the images
of death and destruction from our minds. We cannot wash
away the stench of rotting flesh from our noses. And there
are many of us who are still waiting for the help that was
promised. The enormity of the problem of drug addiction has
been made manifest by the number of surrenderees which
grows by the hundred each day that passes. Since July 1, we
have already made 3,600 related drug arrests. 120,[000]
drug dependents have already surrendered and 70,000 of them
are pushers. You think this is just a... [applause] It
could take the entire resources of this government to fight
this war.

I have nothing but the interest of my country. But let’s

wait because the PDEA says that – it's about the past
statement made by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.

Two years ago, PDEA came out with a statement that there
are 3 million drug addicts in this country. That was two or
three years ago. How do you think – would the number
incrementally if we count now?

Give it a liberal addition. Maybe, gawin mo na [700,000].

So three million seven hundred thousand [3.7 million]. The
number is quite staggering and scary.

The drug lords that you desperately want to strangle are

not here. Wala mga bilyonaryo dito. The ones that you
catched, running after, are just the lieutenants. They do
it with technology. They’re cooking it in the international
waters.

Itinatapon nila 'yan bulto, by the drums. Dikitan nila ng

GPS. So makikita agad. We are hard put sa intelligence
because they have invented this direct satellite.

Hindi na magdadaan yan ng...All they have to do is to

triangulate where the – pag-ikot niya. And there's so many
– and they are in codes. If we do not help from our friends
here in Asia and America, and Europe – this year number and
problem, believe me, will drown us as a Republic.

Kayo tingnan ninyo ito. How can I solve the problem now by
arresting? Hinahanap... Kung matagal na akong Presidente,
gusto kong patayin. Ang problema pupunta pa ako doon and
I'll ask the permission from this country that I will go
because I have to slaughter these idiots who are destroying
my country.

Ganoon yun eh. [inaudible] Presidente, ayaw ko naman

bitawan, kasi ayaw naman kasi ng military, pati pulis. But
you know, I said, "I’ll be talking in front of the Republic
to its representatives, for the people". So I have to tell
you: "How do we solve this problem?" Can we? Ako naman okay
lang eh. Make it public, fine. Make it confidential, if you
go to me or go to you, to your house, okay. But that is
really the enormity of the problem. It's so enormous that
you are intimidated even just to make a move. Because you
cannot stop it anyway. Mabunggo mo isa dito hinulog sa
dagat, eh marami naman nagluluto doon.

It’s a free for all enterprise for the criminals at this

time. Kung ako, if I had just the plan...Sabi ko, sabi ko
sa military kapag nakita ninyo, pasabugin mo na. Maski nag-
surrender yan, may white, white flag. Pang-giyera lang yan,
hindi yan pang-kriminal, pasabugin mo. Show no mercy to
them because they're not doing any mercy to us anyway.
Bakit ako...Iyan ang problema.

But we should not despair. Like someone wrote: It is when

the night is darkest, that dawn breaks.

We are imbued with resiliency that has been tested and

proven. More difficult times As in the past. We have a bond
to act together. We have to help each other. For then and
only then can we truly prevail.

And the Filipino, disciplined, informed, involved, shall

rise from the rubbles of sorrow and pain. So that all the
mirrors in the world will reflect the face of a passion
that has changed this land.

Daghang Salamat. [applause]