I know for a fact that all of you have done your best during the past year so that our citizenry can feel safe and secure, whether they are in their homes, in their places of work, or out in the streets.

Our people also know very well that without the police force to serve and protect them, then crime and lawlessness will prevail in our communities, and the most valiant efforts of government to fight poverty and accelerate social and economic development will all go to waste.

I am glad that we have begun the process of implementing the necessary reforms that will restore the good name of the police force in the esteem of our people.

The past year has been a year of significant accomplishments for the PNP in fighting crime, terrorism, and insurgency. As the premier law enforcement agency of the national government, our task is to uphold law and order throughout the country.

Yet, we know for a fact that criminals will always find a way to get around the law and to make life miserable for the citizenry. I must, therefore, urge everyone to remain vigilant against crime and terrorism as we enter a new year.

Let me assure everyone that the PNP will strive to boost the morale and welfare of our men and women in uniform within the limits of our available resources. This is a sincere effort on our part to reciprocate the sacrifice and hard work of everyone in the PNP during the past year.

And it is my hope that all the officers and the rank-and-file personnel of the PNP will rise to the challenge, strive to reach the new horizons and work even harder in the new year.

Again, let me convey my warm greetings to everyone here today, and may the spirit of the season bring us peace and harmony throughout the new year.