Duterte thanks soldiers for sacrifices ahead of Christmas

President Duterte led in the distribution of Christmas gifts to military troops stationed in Camp General Manuel Yan Sr., Mawab, Compostela Valley, on Saturday and thanked them for their sacrifices in keeping the country safe.

The President also assured the troops of the 10th Infantry Division (10th ID) who have kept Davao City safe that he would pursue the modernization program of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to allow them to perform their duties more effectively and look after slain soldiers’ families.

In his speech, he urged the military to “destroy” commu-

nist rebels as he insisted on his refusal to subscribe to their five-day holiday ceasefire declaration.

“We do not subscribe to their ceasefire. We are ready for anything and I said change your paradigm. Do not fight them. Destroy them. Destroy them. Kill them,” Duterte said.

The President extended his Holiday greetings to the soldiers and their families whom he also lauded for taking part in the sacrifices made by soldiers in the line of duty to secure the nation.

He likewise hailed the members of the 10th ID for their "gallant efforts" in combating communist insurgents in the country.

"The surrender of almost 8,000 communist rebels and the recovery of some 700 firearms just this year alone speak well of the division’s commitment to end the rebellion for good," Duterte said.

"I also call on our troops, especially the men and women of the 10th Infantry Division, to remain committed to your sworn duty to protect our people and defend our democratic rights. And I assure you of my full support as we continue to ensure the security of Mindanao until the lifting of Martial Law," he added.

Duterte also expressed confidence that the AFP will continue to protect the country and its people from threats.

"As we celebrate Christmas and welcome the New Year, I am confident that the AFP will continue to ensure that peace will reign across our nation for the years to come," he said.

Members of the 10th ID received around 2,000 gift packs aside from their cash bonus.

Duterte expressed confidence that the AFP will continue to ensure peace across the nation in the years to come.

He said although he could not include another visit to see his troops in his schedule on Christmas Day, he reiterated his commitment to watch out for their welfare.

“Merry Christmas, especially to your family. We'll just pray that you're in good health and just be careful,” Duterte said.