Duterte returns to Jolo

President Duterte flew to Jolo, Sulu province, on Monday to address government troops and check on the condition of wounded soldiers there.

Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, in a text message to reporters, confirmed the President’s visit, which came two weeks after five soldiers were shot by policemen there.

Roque did not give other details.

Malacañang did not announce the camp visit to media as it was not open for media coverage.

Flew from Davao

A source said Mr. Duterte flew from Davao City to Camp Gen. Teodulfo Bautista, headquarters of the Philippine Army’s 11th Infantry Division, in Barangay Busbus, Jolo, on Monday afternoon.

He was expected to fly back to Manila on Monday night, after spending 10 days in Davao City.

The camp visit came two weeks after the killing by policemen of four Army soldiers who were on an intelligence mission in Jolo on June 29.

Appeal

On July 3, Mr. Duterte flew to Zamboanga City and appealed to soldiers to remain calm and not seek revenge against the policemen.

He also assured them of a fair investigation. INQ