President Rodrigo Roa Duterte called for peace in Mindanao, and denounced the chaos in the area following the attack of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Datu Paglas, Maguindanao on Saturday (May 8).
In his speech in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao on Tuesday (May 11), President Duterte stated that he went there to call, and ask for the stoppage of the attacks in the area as he is aware of the existing chaos in some parts of Mindanao.
He requested to avoid having a war. However, if some groups will still continue with their plans, he will be forced to do it.
“If you continue to kill civilians and if you continue to kill the hostage, and if you continue to kill my soldiers, I will be forced to do what is necessary. Hindi ako nagwa-warning. Hindi ako nananakot. I have no business to give you intimidating talk. Nagmamakaawa nga ako. Tulungan lang ninyo ako. This cannot go on, hindi talaga pwede…Kung hindi ko mapigilan and there will be an all-out offensive, ‘yan na ang problema. If I give the order, I will no longer withdraw it.”
The Chief Executive added that if he declares a war, it will be “bloody, and sad.”
Report from Mela Lesmoras/NGS-rir
