TARLAC CITY – President Rodrigo Duterte visited soldiers at Camp Servillano Aquino on Dec. 11, Sunday in a display of continuing support to the military.
He also announced he is giving his presents for them this Yuletide season.
In a speech before the soldiers, he said they have a president who gives all-out support to the military, adding that he believes in a strong police and military.
Filipinos are grateful with their armed forces and “I am more than satisfied with your performance,” he told the soldiers. He said he will always support the military as long as there are available government resources so the Armed Forces of the Philippines remains in tiptop condition, morale is high and the organization is always backed up by the commander-in-chief.
The members of the military were reminded to do their duties and not to worry about criticisms and legal actions, the President said.
This holiday season, the President may give something to the military, noting it will arrive in their camps.
The President also announced arms delivery from China and he said he is sending Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana to receive the weapons to be extended by the Asian neighbor.
“Hindi na tayo kailangan maghingi pa sa iba because they’re willing to give it. Hindi naman free but it’s a grant actually. If it’s a grant payable in 25 years that is really practically giving,” he said.
He also appealed to the soldiers to understand the ongoing peace talks with the rebels, stressing that as president, he has to consider the interest of greater number of Filipinos by attaining lasting peace in the country. He also warned about the threat posed by Mideast-connected extremist who may seek refuge in Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, countries with significant Muslim populations.
At the same time, he explained his scheduled trip to Cambodia and Singapore this week noting his trip is part of his administration’s diplomatic thrust to strengthen ties with ASEAN neighbors.
“It would maybe someday work to our benefit because we have a cohesiveness at magkaisa tayo dito. The world is really a troubled one. Nagkakampo-kampo kasi, like it started with the EU. Mga Europeans gusto nila mag-kampo tapos limitado tayo dito, ganon,” he said. This grouping limits the country’s chances, since those countries impose restrictions that make it impossible for countries like the Philippines to do business, he said.
The Cambodia and Singapore are introductory visits which in the end may benefit the Philippines in the long term, he said. (PND)
