Rody rallies Marines to protect the republic

MANILA, Philippines – President Duterte last night called on the Marines to protect the country, asking them to shift their paradigm like policemen fighting the war on drugs and terrorism.

He assured the Marines that not one policeman or soldier will go to jail for doing their jobs.

“(But) I am not encouraging you to take the law into your hands,” Duterte said during his visit to Marines headquarters at Riduardo Brown in Taguig City.

“Please understand that this republic will rise. This republic will continue to be great,” he said.

Duterte asked the Marines to prepare to counter terrorism in the country, saying the threat was imminent.

He also renewed his promise to provide the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) with whatever it needs to win the war, including the purchase of modern medical equipment to treat soldiers.

The President also had two Gloc30 caliber .45 pistols raffled off as he promised to provide all soldiers with a handgun by next year.

Duterte received the traditional “whooa” salute and joined the Marines in a boodle fight feasting on lechon baka, fried milkfish, tomatoes, monggo and his favorite maruya (banana fritters) on the table.

Duterte remains unfazed by threats of a military junta in the wake of his strong and bloody campaign against illegal drugs.

“And I told the military if you do not take it, do not like me. Do not say (you will launch) the coup d’etat, call me and I will be the one to swear you in. You can lead the government. Do it (junta) if you like,” Duterte said during the awarding of Child-Friendly Municipalities and the signing of the implementing rules and regulations of the Centenarians Act of 2016 in Malacañang on Monday.

Duterte said he is bound by his mandate to protect the Filipino people and the next generation.

“Because I have to protect… If I do not interdict now, I would have compromised the next generation, your children, even your grandchildren. And it’s going to be a narco politics,” he said.

He issued the statement after announcing that he is opening up the country to trade investments from China and Russia.

Duterte said he wanted to open up communications and domestic routes to foreign investors from the two countries.

Duterte said he would not mind if he is removed from office over his brash methods against illegal drugs.

Duterte said he has no intent to hold on to the presidency in the first place. He said the only reason why he ran for president is because of his love of the country and prevent it from being converted into a narco state.

“But as long as I am seated (as President). I will not allow it. So I told the police do it and do not be afraid. I will take full responsibility, legal or otherwise,” he added.

In his visits to several military and police camps nationwide, Duterte has tried to appease them by announcing a 50 percent increase in their salaries.