President Rodrigo Roa Duterte commended on Monday the gallantry of soldiers from Western Mindanao Command-Joint Task Force Sulu for neutralizing the members of the Abu Sayyaf Group involved in kidnapping for ransom.

“As your Commander-in-Chief, I commend and salute you for your gallantry. Your vigilance and commitment in defeating these terrorists and ensuring the safety and security of our nation, which is really truly inspiring,” President Duterte said during the awarding rites in Malacañang for soldiers who carried out Operation Perfect Storm II in Parang, Sulu, last November 3.

“Your dedication to your sworn duty strongly affirms this administration’s unwavering commitment to safeguard our people and maintain peace and security in the country.

“Be assured of this administration’s unwavering support to the AFP through programs — and of the police also — through programs that will further improve your capacity to respond to the security needs of the country.”

Stressing the need to beef up the country’s security, President Duterte told the soldiers not to worry and to always remain steadfast in protecting the nation.

Last week’s operation resulted in the neutralization of at least seven members of the Dawlah Islamiyah-Abu Sayyaf kidnapping for ransom group under Mundi Sawadjaan and Radullan Sahiron.

The Abu Sayyaf members were reportedly planning to conduct kidnapping operation in Surigao province when they were intercepted. PND