Duterte receives awards from San Beda, FSRR
President Duterte received recognition from the San Beda College of Law and from the First Scout Ranger Regiment (FSRR) for his leadership, and invaluable support to the soldiers.
After his more than one-hour impromptu speech at the San Beda Law Alumni Homecoming in Makati City late Friday evening, Duterte was named “Bedan of the Year” by his alma mater.
He was presented with a bust, formed after his image, in recognition of his “exemplary national leadership.”
The bust was conferred to Duterte by lawyers Avelino Cruz and Benedicto Malcontento, Justice Francisco Acosta, and San Beda's Rector and President, Rev. Fr. Alloysius Ma. Maranan.
Duterte, citing the last paragraph of his prepared speech before completely ditching it, encouraged his fellow alumni to “join hands with the Filipino nation in leading the way for change and progress.”
“As we move forward, may all of our achievements enable the college to remain as a great learning institution committed to its mission of providing excellent and quality education guided by the Benedictine principles of values and principles. Pati pag-mura (Even in cursing),” Duterte said, earning the laughter of his schoolmates.
Duterte graduated from the San Beda College of Law in 1972.
Prior to being recognized by his alma mater, Duterte received an Honorary Scout Ranger Badge from the FSRR during its 67th Founding Anniversary at Camp Tecson in San Miguel, Bulacan.
FSRR Commander Brigadier General Rene Glen Paje and his men met the President when get off from the presidential chopper donning Scout Ranger uniform.
Duterte made it to the event despite the bad weather and received the Honorary Scout Ranger Badge presented by Paje in recognition of his “invaluable support” to the Philippine Army’s special operations command unit.
“For invaluable support extended to the First Scout Ranger Regiment, President Duterte on many occasions manifested great concern for the welfare of Scout Rangers and inspired its officers and men to their mission,” the citation read.
“As such, he is worthy of the respect and honor to be a member of the Scout Ranger family,” it added.
In his speech before hundreds of soldiers and their families, wives of the Marawi fallen soldiers, and local officials in the province headed by Governor Wilhelmino M. Sy-Alvarado, Duterte enjoined the troops to continue to defend the country from various threats such as terrorism and violent extremism.
“Our people depend on the military and the government to give them the stable, orderly and prosperous nation that they desired for so long,” Duterte said. “So let us remain united as we continue to combat the persistent threats of terrorism, extremism and lawlessness,” he added.
The President also officiated the ceremonial awarding of the “Order of Lapu-Lapu” to the officers and personnel who were deployed in Marawi City. He also led the presentation of a plaque of appreciation to private individuals who showed invaluable and meritorious support that contributed to the success of the Scout Rangers.