SULU – President Rodrigo Duterte visited soldiers wounded in firefight with Abu Sayyaf militants in the southern Philippine province of Sulu, officials said Sunday.
Duterte was welcomed by provincial government officials and military commanders and briefly spoke with former governor Sakur Tan in the capital town of Jolo. The weekend visit saw Duterte inspecting wounded soldiers inside a military base in Jolo.
President Rodirgo Duterte is welcomed by former Sulu Governor Sakur Tan during his visit in Jolo town on August 25, 2018 where he inspected troops wounded in clashes with Abu Sayyaf militants in these photos from the Facebook page of Mr. Nahdin Jubaira.
The Western Mindanao Command did not release any statement on Duterte’s visit to Sulu where security forces are battling pro-ISIS militants. But the Presidential Communications Operations Office said Duterte has commended troops for their relentless campaign against terrorists.
In his speech before troops gathered at Camp Teodulfo Bautista, Duterte strongly emphasized that insurgency and terrorism have always hindered the nation’s progress, especially in Mindanao.
“You are here today for one reason only, because you have answered the call to maintain peace and ensure safe communities for every Filipino,” Duterte said. “I assure you that you have my full support as you conduct intensive military operations against these terrorist groups, particularly those who subscribe to the extremist ideologies of the Islamic State and Al-Qaeda.”
Duterte also praised the gallantry and resiliency of the troops. “With your bravery, selflessness, and patriotism, I am optimistic that we will one day defeat all threats to our democratic institutions and secure a brighter future for our beloved country.”
“All I can say with pride: You are not alone in this fight. The Filipino people stand beside you, and I stand with you every step of the way as we advance the common good and promote the safety and security of our nation,” he said.
The President also awarded medals to the wounded soldiers, 21 of them, who clashed recently with Abu Sayyaf in Patikul town.
Those who received the award were Sergeants Wilmar Salde, Jonathan Mamalompong, Alejandro Bautista, Agripino Pagauitan, Randy Menor; Corporals Jeffrey Zippagan, Jeramil Canipas, Edward Tamangen Jr., Arnel Walay, Raffy Jay Hernal, Joel Wawoc; and Privates First Class Delim Cawas, Arnold Daria, Raib Pannal; also Privates Leo Molina, Ronnie Galinggan, Jonel Ramiscal, Jackson Ramos, Ruben Ruping Jr., Jobert Galas, and Jake Venezuela. (Mindanao Examiner)
20
