(Eagle News) – President Rodrigo Duterte said that he is giving the Philippine National Police a fund of P25 million for the use of medicines and other health needs of policemen and other PNP personnel.
During his speech at the 117th Police Service Anniversary, Duterte said he understood the medical needs of policemen, especially when they reach 50, the age that people usually get sick with various ailments.
The President made the announcement as he was about to end his speech on Wednesday, August 8, in Camp Crame, Quezon City.
“I am giving you P25 million for medicines and all,” he said.
“When you reach 50, trouble comes at that age: diabetes, heart (disease),” he told those attending the event.
Duterte said that the Philippine government can take care of the expenses of the PNP personnel who needed money for their medicines and other health expenses.
“We can take care of your expenses. Twenty-five million pesos (P25 million), if you put that into good use, is enough,” he said.
The President said that even the specialized medical services of police personnel would be addressed by the said fund.
“Just tell me, we can afford it. You do not have beg there, or steal or borrow,” he said.
The President said that all that he asked of the policemen is to do their duty honestly and responsibly.
“Your duty and mine is to preserve the public and protect the people,” he added.