Duterte visits soldiers wounded in Abu Sayyaf clashes

President Duterte recognized the bravery of the government forces who were wounded in clashes against the Abu Sayyaf early this month.

Over the weekend, Duterte visited the seven wounded soldiers from the Philippine Army and Philippine Marines in Camp Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital in Jolo, Sulu.

During his visit, the President conferred the Order of Lapu-Lapu, Kampilan Medals on Corporals Dixon Aplahal, Larkin Lumacad, Binjakar Ajak and Bernardo Cortiz, Privates First Class Reynard Baynos and John Jusay, and Private Brix Cojo.

The seven soldiers were wounded during encounters against Abu Sayyaf groups last July 11 and 21 in Talipao and Patikul towns.

The Kampilan Medal is awarded to officials and personnel of the government and private individuals who were seriously wounded or injured or suffered great loss of property as a direct result of their participation in an activity pursuant to a campaign or advocacy of the President.

Malacañang said that aside from the medals, the soldiers received financial aid from the President.

Early this week, Duterte conferred the same award on five soldiers wounded in fighting the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu this month.

The award was conferred on Staff Sergeant Krisnan E. Natividad, Sergeant Yahcob J. Sarian, Private Eugene S. Gonzales, Private First Class Richard C. Aquino and Corporal Jolly Bert V. Balmore.

Malacañang said the President thanked the soldiers for their courage, bravery, and sacrifice in the service of the country.

“The Commander-in-Chief told the wounded soldiers that he visited them to show how much he cares for the military and assured them of government’s support,” Malacañang said.

Early this week, Duterte said he was willing to talk to the Abu Sayyaf and other armed groups in the hope of bringing peace in Mindanao.

According to the President, nothing will come out if the government and the armed groups continue to fight.

He also said armed groups in Mindanao should take advantage of the fact that the country now has a president with Moro lineage. He appealed to them to give him a chance to talk peace with them.

Duterte also said he is willing to confer the Order of Lapu-Lapu on Abu Sayyaf members, the same award he gives to soldiers.

He reiterated he is willing to visit Abu Sayyaf camps as long as they promise not to do him any harm.

Last week, the President signed the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) which, according to the Palace, is a precondition for truce in Mindanao.