President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Wednesday, September 27, welcomed children evacuees from Marawi City and told the young Maranaos to stay away from the ideals of terrorism which only creates chaos and confusion.
The Chief Executive met with the participants of the “Tabak Educational Tour: Peaceful Environment in the Outside World” in Malacañan Palace.
In his short message, the President asked the young Maranaos to help him restore what was lost in the war-torn Islamic City.
The President also described to the young Maranaos the current situation in Mindanao, particularly on how the Maute terrorist group wreaked havoc in their homeland.
The Commander-in-Chief also explained how the government troops were sent to Marawi City to restore peace and order.
President Duterte then expressed his grief over the destruction caused by the ongoing rebellion.
The Chief Executive reiterated his promise to rehabilitate Marawi City and to rebuild the children’s homes.
He also expressed his gratitude to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) for spearheading the educational tour for the Marawi children.
One of the participating children delivered a heartfelt message during the meeting and thanked President Duterte and the security forces for showing their love to the Maranaos.
UK Trade Envoy pays courtesy call to President Duterte
After the meet and greet with the Maranao children, President Duterte received United Kingdom Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy to the Philippines Richard Graham in Malacañan Palace.
During the trade envoy’s courtesy call, the President stressed his desire to further enhance the Philippines’ relationship with UK, particularly on trade and investment.
President Duterte stressed that once the conflict in Marawi City ends, Mindanao could be a promising place for investments to come in.
Graham, for his part, said that UK is “absolutely behind” the Philippines in its fight against terrorism.
He said British investors are encouraged to do business in the Philippines.
President Duterte then guaranteed that foreign investors need not worry about public officials extorting money from them, as he vowed to put an end to corruption in the government. (PND)
