President Duterte flies to Jolo; honors soldiers killed in twin bombings
MANILA – President Rodrigo Duterte flew from Davao City to Jolo, Sulu yesterday to honor the soldiers killed in the most recent bloody twin bombings in the restive Southern Philippines. During his remarks, he vowed to crush Islamist militants operating in the region.
“To our troops, I stand in solidarity with you as we hoor the memory of your comrades, my soldiers, who gave their lives in the name of peace h ere in Sulu,” President Duterte said in a speech quoted and aired by the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Monday morning.
He said the recent bombings that resulted in the death of several civilians and soldiers will strengthen the government’s resolve to end the arrest of the lawless elements behind the violent incident which he went on to describe as “cowardly act.” He also called on security forces to put a premium on the need to rid the country of terrorism.
The chief executive admitted the pandemic has exacted its toll on the Armed Forces of the Philippines but praised them for their desire to accomplish their mission for and on behalf of the Filipino people.
“Because of this, I am humbled by your commitment, inspired by your patriotism and grateful for a continued support,” he said in his remarks before the troops in Sulu. He further said with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the terrorists will never succeed in their “pointless goals.”
He assured the soldiers of his full support to accomplish their mission of eradicating Islamist militants operating in Sulu province. He also called on local government leaders to support his government’s programs to achieve peace in the region.
The twin Sulu bombings said to have been carried out by two female suicide bombers resulted in the death of 17 people including a few members of the military. The twin events resulted to the injury of some 20 individuals.
Islamist militants were said to have been involved in bloody bombing of the Jolo Cathedral last year which killed over 20 people. (Melo M. Acuña)
President Rodrigo Duterte offers a wreath in memory of the fallen soldiers who died during the Jolo, Sulu twin bombings recently. Right photo shows the carnage of the twin bombings. (PCOO Photos)
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