ZAMBOANGA CITY, August 31 (PIA) – President Rodrigo Duterte visited yesterday (August 30) the site of the twin blasts where some 14 people including civilians, soldiers and a policeman were killed last week. He said he “knelt and kissed” the pavement there since “the victims were not even able to say their final prayers”.
As he talked to troops in Camp Teodulfo Bautista headquarters, he honored the soldiers who have lost their lives in battle, as well as in the recent twin bombings. “I stand in solidarity with you as we honor memories of the soldiers. This will only further strengthen our resolve to crush lawless elements behind this cowardly act,” President Duterte said.
During his visit, President Rodrigo Duterte lamented on the violence that plagued Mindanao for generations, as he cited the region’s potential to be at par with highly developed nations like Dubai in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
“Mindanao’s progress has been hindered by the threat of insurgency and extremism. If there had been no seed of hatred, Mindanao now would have been much better,” he added.
“We can never be complacent when it comes to terrorism,” President Duterte told soldiers as he committed to support them continuously to end the violence in Sulu.
With the President during his visit were Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong Go” and other local and national government officials. (EDT/DIS/PIA9-ZAMSULTA, screengrab via RTVM)
Source: Philippines Information Agency (pia.gov.ph)
0 Comments