Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista Headquarters
January 22, 2021

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte recognized the unrelenting service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) amid the continuing threats of terrorism and insurgency in the country on top of the pandemic.

In a speech before the AFP officers and enlisted personnel at the Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista Headquarters in Jolo, Sulu, President Duterte commended the bravery of the military in keeping public order and showing exemplary heroism in the face of danger despite losing lives in the performance of operations.

“On behalf of a grateful nation, I convey my most profound sympathies to the grieving families for they are the ones who made the ultimate sacrifices in the name of peace. For that, we will forever be grateful,” he said.

“Our progress as a nation has been hindered by the insurgency and terrorism for several decades. This is the reason why I have nothing but high praises and respect for all of you who are taking the risk to deter those who disrupt the peace of our country,” the President added.

He also congratulated the brave men and women of the Joint Task Force (JTF) Sulu and the 11th Infantry Division for their efforts and determination againt the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG).

“Our presence here is an assurance that we will not just honor those who have perished in this tragedy. We will also do everything in our power to prevent similar acts of cowardice and violence so that people will never experience them again,” President Duterte affirmed.

The Commander-in-Chief remained hopeful that in the new year, the country shall continue to eliminate terrorist groups in Sulu for good. He called on everyone to remain vigilant and cooperative in order to achieve such goal.

“With your support, I remain confident that we will prevail over the challenges that confront us. Be assured that in time, Filipino people is behind you as you secure genuine and lasting change for our motherland,” he said.

The President visited Jolo, Sulu for a series of engagements that included witnessing of the ceremonial distribution of food packs to a number of beneficiaries and conferment of the Order of Lapu-Lapu with the Rank of Kamagi to several recipients from the Philippine Army (PA), Philippine Air Force (PAF) and Philippine Navy (PN).

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