17 January 2017

President Duterte visits wake of fallen Army officer

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte personally condoled with the family of an Army officer killed in battle against the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) at the Libingan ng mga Bayani Mortuary in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on Monday, January 16.

The President arrived at the wake of Captain Clinton L. Capio at 7:13 p.m. and was received by National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.He expressed his sympathy and condolences to the wife of the slain officer. He also extended financial assistance to the family.

Captain Capio was killed in action in Cabcaban, Sumisip, Basilan on Thursday, January 12, during a combat operation against more or less 60 fully armed Abu Sayyaf Group members under Furuji Indama, alias Abu Dajana

The Army’s operation against the Abu Sayyaf is in line with the directive of the President to eliminate the bandit group known for kidnappings and beheadings

On his way out of the chapel, the President was greeted by many Army soldiers, most of them belonging to the Special Forces of the Philippine Army.

He briefly talked to the soldiers, assuring them of his full support as they perform their duties to the nation.

He asked them to continuously help in the government’s fight against illegal drugs and corruption and maintain peace and order in the country to sustain economic growth.

The President also assured the soldiers that his communication line will always be open in case they need help.###PND