President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. addressed the inaugural graduation ceremony of the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City, emphasizing the importance of transparency and good governance. Speaking to the 661 graduates, Marcos encouraged them to serve the Filipino people with utmost diligence, accountability, and integrity.
Marcos highlighted the necessity of continuous learning and skill development to keep pace with the ever-changing world. He urged the graduates to apply their new knowledge and values to become advocates for transparency and good governance in their roles. The President also stressed the importance of using available tools to enhance government service delivery.
He expressed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that budget allocations and government spending would drive growth and elevate the nation. Marcos entrusted the graduates with the responsibility of spending every centavo wisely on projects that would benefit current and future generations of Filipinos.
The President called for leaders who prioritize the greater good and embody the ideals of a disciplined New Philippines, choosing the right path over easy or convenient options. He advised the graduates to implement strategic initiatives and innovations to improve public services, such as simplifying transactions and reducing bureaucratic red tape.
Marcos reminded the graduates to stay true to their core values and the reasons they entered public service and pursued further education at the DAP. Established in 1973, the DAP is tasked with conducting programs to address developmental challenges and support national progress.
The graduating class included a diverse group of 456 civilian government officials, 118 Armed Forces of the Philippines personnel, 43 Philippine Coast Guard officers, and 44 private sector representatives. Various degrees and certificates were awarded, ranging from Executive Doctorates in Education Leadership to Master’s degrees in Development Management and Public Management, as well as specialized courses in areas such as health systems, security, and microfinance.