MARCHING ORDER President Duterte makes his signature pose as he delivers his speech at Camp Teodulfo Bautista in Jolo, Sulu, on Aug. 25. —MALACAÑANG PHOTO
President Duterte has assured the military of his full support as he ordered soldiers to “destroy and kill” enemies of the state, particularly the Islamic State and al-Qaida terrorist groups.
“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-Qaida,” the President said in a speech at Camp Teodulfo Bautista atBarangay Bus-bus in Jolo, Sulu.
‘Inutile ideology’
“That’s just a bankrupt, inutile ideology. They only know how to destroy and kill, destroy and kill. So my order to you: Destroy and kill also. Why be at a disadvantage?” he added.
President Duterte assured the soldiers that they are not alone in their fight to protect the country.
“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,” he said.
The President added: “The Filipino people stands beside you, and I stand with you every step of the way as we advance the common good and promote the safety of our nation.”
He also reminded them to always keep themselves safe even as they carry out their duties of fighting threats and protecting the country.
“Take extra care. Do not be an extraordinary hero. Just take cover for as long as you can… In real life, ensure your safety first, then you kill,” he said, noting that a soldier’s life is harder than what appears in the movies.
He also assured soldiers that he would provide for their needs and whatever they ask for in order to survive.
‘I’ll give everything’
“Every time that you need me and everything that you need to survive, I’ll give it,” the President said.
President Duterte also commended the Joint Task Force Sulu for its relentless pursuit operations against threat groups such as the Abu Sayyaf.
“I therefore commend the Joint Task Force Sulu for your relentless efforts against various threat groups in your area of operations, especially the Abu Sayyaf,” he said.