Pres. Duterte graces inauguration of Solar Philippines Factory

FILE PHOTO/ President Rodrigo Duterte (PNA Photo)

STO. TOMAS, Batangas — President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Wednesday, August 23, expressed gratitude for the efforts of Solar Philippines in advancing the country’s solar energy industry.

In his speech during the inauguration of the Solar Philippines factory at the First Industrial Park here, President Duterte noted that the establishment of the state-of-the-art facility is timely and relevant as the country addresses the increasing demand for renewable energy.

“Since developing solar energy projects in the Philippines mostly requires imported materials, it is high time that we begin to establish local solar power factories,” the President said.

“Aside from helping us achieve energy sufficiency, this is an exciting time for you to start your venture as we are making substantial gains in our social economic reforms,” he said, adding that he looks forward to the realization of the company’s goal to be the largest exporter of solar-batteries next to China.

According to the Chief Executive, the solar products and services of Solar Philippines are expected to meet the need of solar panels in the Philippines and other countries to increase supply and at the same time, lower the cost of solar photovoltaics.

He pledged that the government will continue to aid the development of renewable energy in the Philippines. During the inauguration, President Duterte led the ceremonial unveiling of a solar panel embossed with the map of the Philippines.

Solar Philippines, led by its President and CEO Leandro Leviste, presented a “Digong Edition” of the solar panel during the event.

Among those present at the inauguration were Senator Loren Legarda, Department of Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi, Philippine Economic Zone Authority Director General Charito Plaza, and Solar Philippines Chief Operating Officer Roy Oyco.

During his speech, the President also highlighted his campaign promise to get rid of drugs, corruption, and criminality. “I will stick with my campaign promise… I will not condone corruption, drugs, criminality because it destroys the nation,” he said.

At the same time, President Duterte reiterated that he would resign if any member of his family will be proven to be involved in corruption.

“I am not defending my son. Prove it, it is true, and I will resign,” he said. “Sabi ko nga, anyone involved in my family, nasa corruption, bababa ako pagka-Presidente. No excuses, no apologies. Pero ‘yun totoo lang,” he said.

The President also clarified that he only promised to protect government troops who are doing their duty.

“But what I reminded again the military and the police is that it should be in the performance of duty. That you are not allowed to kill a person who is kneeling down, begging for his life,” he said.

“I never promised to protect those who are supposedly engaged in doing their duty but committing a crime in the process — abuses. That cannot be done,” he said. (PND)