Multi-Purpose Hall, 2MIB, Iligan City, Lanao del Norte
May 26, 2017

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte spoke to the troops of the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade who are deployed in the ongoing firefight between the government forces and the Maute terror group in Marawi City during his visit in Iligan City.

In his speech, the Commander-In-Chief urged the soldiers to concentrate on their operations against the lawless elements. He assured them the full support of the government in the ongoing crisis.

“We have the weapons and equipment and we have the air assets to help you, we will try our very best na magamit lahat to protect you in time when you are fighting… but I am here to say to you, fight, and I will pray for you, and I will answer for everything. For this martial law, and consequences of martial law, and ramifications of martial law, I and I alone, will be responsible,” the President remarked.

President Duterte also mentioned his brief meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin wherein he asked for a soft loan to provide the Armed Forces with military equipment ‘to effectively prevent collateral damage’ in its operations.

The President ended his speech by assuring the soldiers that the government and its forces will emerge victorious and regain control of the situation.

“This time, it is the time for victory. Wala kayong problema. I will take care of you. We will overcome and we will win,” President Duterte said.

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