Duterte: My adherence to rule of law is uncompromising

MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday stressed that he will adhere to due process and rule of law in fighting drugs and criminality upon taking his oath of office as the 16th president of the country.

In his speech following his inauguration, Duterte, a former prosecutor, said he knows the limits of his power and authority as president.

"I know that there are those who do not approve of my methods of fighting criminality, They say that my methods are unorthodox and verge on the illegal," Duterte said in his inaugural speech.

Duterte narrated how he had seen corruption and illegal drugs affect the government and the lives of Filipino families.

The president called on the Congress and the Commission on Human Rights to remain consistent to its mandate.

"The fight will be relentless and it will be sustained. I know the limits of the power and authority of the president. I know what is legal and what is not," Duterte said.

Duterte added that he will seek to revitalize and recover the lost values of love of country, subordination of personal interests and care for the helpless in his term.

"The ride will be rough but come and join me just the same," the president said.

The president noted that the country will continue to honor treaties and international obligations under his term.

The Duterte administration will also continue peace talks with the Moro in Mindanao.

"I look forward to the participation of stakeholders particularly indigenous peoples to ensure inclusivity in the peace process," Duterte said.

"Why am I here? I am here because I love my country and I love the people of the Philippines," the president concluded.

Duterte met with former President Benigno Aquino III at the President's Hall at Malacañang prior to his oath-taking at the Rizal Memorial Hall.

The new president was Aquino's last visitor at the Palace before he was given departure honors to signify the end of his six-year term. — Video edited by Efigenio Toledo IV courtesy of RTVM