Manila Bulletin

Be vigilant vs terrorism – Duterte; War on drugs, crime continue – ‘Bato’

- By FRED LOBO

PRESIDENT Duterte has asked the people to remain vigilant against terrorism by making it hard for terror groups to continue with their terroristi­c activities.

Let not terrorism spread like wildfire, he urged.

*** Likewise, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Ronald “Bato” de la Rosa has vowed a continued campaign against drugs and criminalit­y in a speech during national hero Jose Rizal’s birth anniversar­y.

No to drugs, no to crimes, “Bato” reiterated.

*** “I ask for your continued vigilance as we restore public order in the fight against terrorism,” the President said at the People’s Day celebratio­n at the Caraga State University in Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte.

Vigilance is the antidote to terrorism, he stressed.

*** In his first public engagement after five days of private time, Duterte said, “This Maute and ISIS only know how to kill. Do not allow them to enter.”

No entry for Maute and ISIS, he declared.

*** The President pointed to the ongoing war between the military and the ISIS-linked Maute group in Marawi City which began on May 23, 2017.

He said fellow Mindanaoan­s should continue to be vigilant as the government implements stringent measures for the safety of the people and for restoratio­n of public order in communitie­s affected by terrorism

*** “Together we will work relentless­ly in overcoming obstacles in our way to become a more inclusive and progressiv­e society,” the President said.

Progress and inclusive growth are on DU30’s mind.

*** The President also encouraged Agusanons to fight and solve not only terrorism but also the spread of illegal drugs.

He cited the anti-illegal drug campaign of Agusan del Norte Gov. Ma. Angelica Rosedell AmanteMatb­a, saying, “You rise to become the symbol of unity and cooperatio­n in the region.”

*** Duterte acknowledg­ed the contributi­ons of the Agusanons and the province’s week-long celebratio­n of its 50th foundation anniversar­y with the theme “Bulawanong Kasaulogan sa Masidlakon­g Agusan.”

“This festivity is an affirmatio­n of a collective triumph of unity and cooperatio­n, its people’s enduring values of persistenc­e and hard work pave the way for Agusan del Norte’s continuing journey towards greater social economic growth,” he said.

*** The 72-year-old President debunked rumors that he was sick and called on the people not to worry much about his health.

I am physically fit, Duterte declared, showing the people he was still strong. *** “My state of health is (therefore) irrelevant,” he told newsmen. Okay, Mr, President, let us then focus on the state of the nation.

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