'Destroy and kill' ISIS, al Qaeda, Duterte orders military

President Rodrigo Duterte has ordered the military to "destroy and kill" extremist and terrorist groups who wreak havoc in the country, particularly in Mindanao.

Duterte made the order on Saturday as he assured the military that it will receive his full support in their operations.

"I assure you that you have my full support as you conduct intensive military operations against these terrorist groups, particularly those who subscribe to the extremist ideologies of the Islamic State and al Qaeda," Duterte told soldiers at Camp Teodulfo Bautista Headquarters in Jolo, Sulu in a speech.

"That’s just a bankrupt —inutil na ideology. Ang alam lang nito magpatay pati magsira. Destroy and kill. So my order to you: Destroy and kill also," he added

In his speech, Duterte underscored the importance of the military in addressing matters involving national defense.

"Ang trabaho ng sundalo pusta buhay talaga ‘yan. But the country remembers you. I personally would like to --- I said to give my fullest attention and lahat ng kailangan ninyo, from the time you enter the service up to the time ---may plano na ako," he said.

"Lahat ng mga asawa na military o police na alam mo na, hindi umabot sa panahon, ‘yung mga asawa ninyo may trabaho and I take care of your education sa mga anak, wala kayong problema diyan," he added.

The President pointed out that while he does not have a grudge against them, civilians are "lazy and cowered." It was for this reason that he let members of the military work for him instead.

Two members of this cabinet —Interior Officer-in-Charge Eduardo Ano and Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu —were both members of the military.

"Wala akong ano except that ang gusto ko kasi sa inyo ‘pag inutusan na gawain mo ‘yan at gagawin at walang sindikato," he said.

"Kaya kaming mga Presidente, si Gloria [Macapagal Arroyo] pati, umaasa sa military kasi sa military kasi [may] isang salita, isang honor. Walang lokohan ‘yan," he added.

The President also told the military that he is one with them in the fight against extremist groups.

"All I can say with pride: You are not alone in this fight. The Filipino people stands beside you, and I stand with you every step of the way as we advance the common good and promote the safety of our nation," he said. —Erwin Colcol/LBG, GMA News