Duterte vows to take care of Filipino soldiers’ needs

MANILA, Philippines — President Duterte yesterday vowed to take care of the needs of Filipino soldiers as he praised them for maintaining peace and stability in the country.

Duterte said he is proud of the achievements of the soldiers, who he said displayed selflessness, heroism and faithful service.

“The Filipino people are eternally grateful for your service and sacrifice for our nation. I have said before, as (long) as you perform your duties according to the rule of law, I will take care of your needs,” the President said during the 121st anniversary of the Philippine Army at Fort Bonifacio.  

Duterte cited the Armed Forces’ liberation of Marawi City from Islamic State-inspired terrorists. The five-month Marawi siege prompted Duterte to impose martial law in the entire island of Mindanao last May. 

“You went beyond the call of duty to successfully liberate the once thriving and vibrant Islamic City of Marawi from the terrorist groups who sought to force their extremist ideology on our people,” he said.

“A year after, you continue to play a crucial role as we rebuild the city and endeavor to ensure that our fellow citizens are able to live in an environment of peace and stability,” he added. 

Duterte said the Army’s continuous internal security operations in Mindanao and the rest of the country have allayed fears of possible resurgence of terrorists.

The President also cited his administration’s efforts to strengthen the capabilities and boost the morale of soldiers, including the implementation of the Armed Forces Modernization program and the release of additional P50 million to the Armed Forces of the Philippines Medical Center. 

Duterte also mentioned the government’s plan to lease military camps to establish a pension fund for soldiers. 

“There are no shortcuts to success. We will continue to face challenges as we trudge the noble path of building a stronger and safer nation. However, because of your contributions, these goals are now within reach,” he said. 

“I think this time, we have done enough in government to make your life comfortable. But please do not hesitate. I’d like to have the rapport personally with each and everyone of you,” he added. 

During the Army anniversary, Duterte shared the stage again with Vice President Leni Robredo, the highest elected member of the opposition. Duterte and Robredo were also present during the Philippine Military Academy graduation rites in Baguio City last Sunday. 

Duterte joked that Robredo was the agenda of the meeting of the National Security Council executive committee last Monday. 

“We ended at 3 a.m. and we talked about you,” he told Robredo during the start of his speech. – Jaime Laude