A rector of EDSA Shrine on Monday reminded policemen to always adhere to professional standards and use their expertise to serve the people.

In his speech during the weekly flag-raising ceremony at the grandstand of the National Capital Region Police Office at Camp Bagong Diwa in Bicutan, Taguig City, Rev. Fr. Jerome Secillano told policemen to sincerely serve the people according to their mandate and must adhere to ethical and moral standards.

“I am surprised because I thought that ethics was only taught at the seminary. I am also surprised that the Philippine National Police is allotting a particular day, which we called Ethics Day,” he said in his speech on the sidelines of the 30th Ethics Day celebration.

“Ethics is a branch of science which tells the morality of human actions. When we say morality, we speak of the sense of right and wrong,” he added.

Fr. Secillano told policemen not to be hypocrites and to show their true selves.

“As a policeman, you should not wear a mask. You are called to serve the people. Show it to the people that you are worthy of their trust because you are a true public servant,” he said.

“If you fake it, then you should not not belong to the PNP. It’s a harsh word but that should be a challenging one for all of you,” the priest added.

Fr. Secillano also urged policemen to use their expertise and capabilities for doing good things to other people.

“The expertise that you have should always be used to serve the Filipino people. You didn’t become a policeman just to advance your own welfare and interest. You are called to serve the people and your life should be used for the benefit of the Filipino people,” he added.