PRRD thanks troops who neutralised ASG in Bohol

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jun 7): PRRD thanks troops who neutralised ASG in Bohol

Philippine President Rodrigo Roa Duterte recently dined in a boodle fight with 500 military and police personnel in Central Visayas.

Dubbed as "Boodle fight with the Peacemakers", this was the President's way of showing his gratitude to men in uniform for their efforts in maintaining peace and order especially in neutralising the Abu Sayaff troops in the province of Bohol last April.

“Nagpapasalamat ako sa inyo that you stayed true to your mandate,” Duterte said.

He also gave them the same assurance he made in his several rounds in military camps nationwide that he is on their side as long as they remain committed to serve the country.

"I am not asking personal loyalty, just remain true to the flag," the President said.

He also highlighted in his speech, recent developments in strengthening the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) with more troops and new fighting equipment.

Duterte mentioned his willingness to take in the armed rebel members in Mindanao to compose the additional 10,000 troops for the AFP during his term.

These include the men of Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) chairman Nur Misuari who recently expressed willingness to help in the ongoing Marawi seige.

"Brother Nur, if you still have able bodied soldiers of yours, I am ready to integrate them into the Republic of the Philippines AFP," he said.

The invite extends even to regular members of the New People's Army (NPA).

"Lahat ng NPA I can also take you in, just bring the guns, papalitan ko yan ng bago and you'll be enlisted in the AFP,' Duterte said.

After his speech, the President digged into the Boodle fight with lechon, bam.i and fried tangigue.

It is the third official visit of Duterte in Cebu this year.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2441496737541/prrd-thanks-troops-who-neutralised-asg-in-bohol-